You have definately found an "American Gem". It is a very precious find because these trucks are slowly disapearing. They carry with them many untold stories of our past and how we use to live, work and play. They were also built with extreme American pride and many of them have lasted because of the fact that we, as a country, produced a high quality "steel" that, unforseen at the time, has allowed them to endure. In the way our throw away society is today there are not many items that will last the test of time as these vehicles have. In sixty or seventy years from "today" I can't imagine someone bragging about their restored 2008 car or truck! It's all the plastic....what can I say?
The truck you found is definately worth more than $200.00,...."IF"....you wish to engage a great challenge. You sound like a well grounded young man. This truck would be a great learning experience and that covers a multitude of emotions. Excitement, thirsting for knowledge, and the "ultimate" of conquering the restoration of a classic American built truck.
So you ask..."What is it worth?". It all comes...slowly...with time, patients, a willingness to learn, and to understand from the get-go that a restoration is not going to happen overnight. Many people slowly spend untold hours, months and sometime years restoring these treasures from our past. Some are very successful and there are others who just can't make it work out for one reason or another. Time and money available to do the "work" are always a problem in our society. So, its really more about what its worth to you, PERSONALLY, than anything else and if you truly have the passion AND the patients to accomplish such a task. It also takes a supportive group to "cheer" you on, because you can't do it alone! You will need the support of your family and friends.....and....need I say more.....there's plenty of support here at "Stovebolt"!!
Your schools automotive program will be an awesome asset for you to beginning to learn the ins and outs of the mechanics of all kinds of vehicles. There are also other trades that you can look into to further your abilities. Machining, welding and sheet metal working/fabrication are good processes to know about also.
Good luck and stay positive! With that attitude you can conquer anything!!
