Howdy everyone! While my account was waiting for approval yesterday i searched the forum and read through many pages trying to become more acquainted with all the info that is available on here.
About me: i am 26 and this will be my first restoration project. i have intermediate mechanic skills but have zero fabrication experience. i bought the truck in cullman, al last weekend at an auction and it will be here in houston by memorial weekend. i cant wait! i have ordered the shop and owners manual, the wiring diagram, factory assembly manual, accessory installation manual, and a truck restoration guide from classicparts. i am hoping those guides along with yalls help will assist me in this endeavor.
About the truck: I purchased a 1958 apache 31 last weekend for only $1300!! it has the 283 and 3 on the column; odometer reads 30360 but im guessing that means it is 230360 miles. it runs like a scalded dog and fires right up everytime. only issue i am aware of right now is that it is real finicky sometimes going from 2nd and 3rd to Rev and Low. i ordered a new set of shift lever bushings hoping this will help. she does have some rust issues but i love the patina color. the inside is shot but from the looks of it everything is original. and the gauge cluster still works.
My plans: first order of business is restoring the seat and fixing the radio ha! then replacing both door and vent windows. luckily both the windshield and back glass are in perfect shape. just needs new weatherstripping all the way around it. im going to repair/replace the most severely rusted areas. but i am not going to try to straighten out every small little dent. after the rusted through areas are repaired i am going to clear coat it to keep the patina color. then i want to install new chrome bumpers, grill, trim, etc. and install wooden bed floor. and remove the aftermarket lights installed on the cab and fenders.
i do not have a large budget as i am recently married and just bought a house last month. but i am so excited to get my feet wet with this truck. so every week i am going to buy a little something for the truck. i am sure i will be asking plenty of ignorant questions so your patience and suggestions/advice/comments will be much appreciated.
i wish it was here already!!!! i just created a photobucket account so i can upload pics. here is one: http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r563/Goose_Geisen/Apache/apache_zpsd40ba532.jpg
and i will add more soon.
Last edited by geisen; 05/07/2014 7:17 PM.
