Hello, I'm new to the forum here and I am caught between two trucks I would like to buy and actually use. I need some expert advice
Here is what I know.
First truck I found is a 1952 GMC and what looks to be a 1 ton flatbed. It has wheels on the front that I have only ever seen photos of on a 1 ton (thats why i'm guessing its a 1 ton, seller does not know). At the moment there is no flatbed on it though, just the bare frame. The 6cyl in it is running but miledge unknown. 3speed on floor, and seller doesnt think it has a 2 speed rear-end. Needs brake and fuel system work. Needs some other things such as headlights and I would have to build a bed for it. Tires hold air but seller said he would not drive to california on them. The truck is about 3 hours away from where I live.
Second truck is a 1952 Chevy 2 ton with very low original miles 6cyl, but is not running and was last used in late 1990's. It already has a nice metal flatbed on it with a winch to pull things up on it. Seller says tires are "shot". This one is about 4.5 hours away from me.
Both trucks have some rust in the usual places but nothign that is structural, which is fine with me. Both are in the below $1000 range. I like the looks of the GMC better but it needs more work and the Chevy would fit my needs better as is because if the steel flatbed and a winch to load things.
Besides the outer sheet metal, what is different between the trucks? Do they have the same powertrains? Harder to find powertrain parts for one than the other? Which has a better realistic cruise speed? Id like to be able to cruise at least 50mph although more would be even better to not get run over. Is it possible to put on slightly taller tires to help out with cruise speed if needed?
Sorry for the long post, I figured it would be best to explain it all at once. I look forward to buying one of these trucks and staying here on the forum.
