Agree with all above. The truck in the Stovebolt.com header and in most of the pages is our '49 1-ton that's original/unrestored and in all it's patina'd glory.
The real question is what do you intend for the truck -- Investment or driver? Do you want to enjoy the truck, drive it and use it, or just flip it make a return on it?
Original, unmolested trucks are unique and always draw a good crowd at shows and gatherings. I know for ours, based on our previous experience restoring old trucks, that if we restored or repainted this truck, two things would happen-- 1. It would be a lot less fun to play with as we'd be afraid of harming the restoration efforts and 2. the "charm" of it would be gone. As Scott Ward says, "It's only original once."
We love driving and lightly working our good, ole Stovebolt without getting all twerped out about scratching the paint or getting it dirty. The best preservative for these old trucks is regular (light to moderate) USE. It's amazing how just using the truck preserves the patina.
Bottom line -- it's your truck. Decide what would make you happy and go that route. It's good to ask questions and get input. Good on ya for preserving that truck! Good luck which ever way you go!
John
