It’s now been 6 months since contracting to buy my panel truck (the Golden Phantom)and 3 months since getting it home. Since that time I’ve been cleaning out 25 plus years of dirt and decay, while I’ve not found any big surprises, I’ve found plenty of things that needs attention. Fortunately most all the original parts and pieces appear to be serviceable, but in need of cleaning and lots of TLC. I’ve reserved a spot at a local restorer to repair the customary rust and to paint it. Hopefully I’ll have it rolling by that time, but that is still an issue to be resolved because shortly after acquiring the truck, I have had to deal with a major health issue.
During this time, I’ve spent many hours browsing the web researching parts availability and am frankly surprised by all the stuff that is. Two things that I’ve not found is the drivers seat and the lower striker for the rear barn doors. I’ve about given up, but if anyone has a lead on these, I would appreciate a heads up. If I can’t find these (the only parts missing) then I’ll fabricate them myself. Any photos and better yet, dimensioned drawings of them would be much appreciated.
If you look at the picture of the truck posted in the gallery, you’ll see that the truck is still in colors and badges of the Silver Top Beverages Co., who used the truck for delivering it’s soft drinks. I’ve been torn whether to restore with the colors and signage or to return it to factory original appearance. I think I am going to have it painted the forester green which is the factory color. Partly because I want something that is going to be slightly more incognito and partly because long ago, I decided that my next truck would be a dark green. Because I’m trying to restore it to as close to original as my wallet can afford, I think either approach can honestly be called original, but I would like to hear your thoughts on the issue. I don’t know if either has a serious impact on the value, but that isn’t really an issue for me.
