The opinions expressed in this thread, all relate to a common issue that I feel is very important to the Stovebolt Community.
This site is packed with information that helps us repair, restore and modify these wonderful trucks. Each of us has a different idea as to what is the ideal truck. In the above post, WE b OLD represents someone who can take his truck on the open highway at modern speeds, perhaps with A/C and a modern sound system, and modern reliable brakes. Then we have folks like Denny Graham, who want to keep things ultra original, down to manufacturing defroster door bumpers to match the originals, (even though you have to disassemble the heater to even see them!) Can't we respect each viewpoint, even though we have our own set of goals, likes and dislikes?
Each of us that owns one (or more) starts with a truck that is in a different state than the next truck. One truck might be a low mileage survivor while the next might be a basket case. The state of our truck can take us on a different journey than perhaps we envisioned. In the restoration of my '50 COE I have had to make some turns away from my original goals that I did not anticipate, but don't disrespect me for my decisions. Enjoy and learn from what I have done, and go do yours the way you want.
My answer to MarkF is the following. While I don't exactly agree with the tone of some of the above posts, there is, nonetheless, some very wise advice. Ultimately, you must find the answer within yourself, in terms of what kind of truck (stock, modified) you really want, balanced with your financial resources. Above all, have fun.
Kent
