Yes, I think it is in the owner. That may be the simple answer here. The crux of it is the degree one is comfortable in making changes to the original machine. Almost all of these old trucks have had some changes as they have gone through past owners - in my case, the original owner welded an axel hub on to the bed side to mount a spare tire, Now, it's my turn.
What is a surprise to me is that the "market" does not appear to distinguish between a well built modified truck and one that has been closely restored to original. Both appear to be selling in the 25-35 thousand dollar range. My information may be faulty, but that's what I'm finding. For example, in the last year or so,
this modified truck , sold for 27.5 thousand, yet,
this close to original truck sold for 30 thousand. Too close to matter. Both beautiful trucks and took a good deal of skill and knowledge to accomplish.
In my mind, primitive as it may be, I can't seem to separate the idea of the truck itself from what it does. Trucks do stuff. Haul things. Get you someplace. Having something "decorative" that you can haul around and win shows with, may be good for some folks, but mine's gotta be scratchable. Need to be able to go to Home Depot and throw a sheet of plywood in the back.
I have no intention of copying somebody else's build, but I keep thinking about
this truck which was described as:
- Body-off restoration, taken down to every last nut and bolt
- Rebuilt 235 CI engine, transmission and rear end
- All syncro 4-speed transmission out of a '76 Vega
- Engine is from a 1958 Chevy
- Rear end is from a 1955 Chevy pickup
- Clutch assembly is out of a '53 GMC pickup
- All brakes, brake lines, fuel lines and wiring replaced
- Every part of this truck has been inspected, cleaned and/or replaced
- Oak bed with walnut stain
Interesting.
