The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Cheap Stovebolts

f18
I enter only one show a year because the donations go to a good charity. but more because of the people there, that don't judge what you bring unless you go thru the judging lane. I don't bother.
The different trucks I have brought will run and move but no brakes. Just ask John.
As you have probably guessed by now, it's the StoveBolt Reunion in KC. Heck, you don't even have to bring a truck to it to meet everybody and have a good time.
This year will be kicking off our western vacation and we'll be in a F-250 or a Subaru to continue west on Sunday.

The wife and I always have a good time because there is a lot of couples there. We don't just talk trucks.
We get to know each other and family.

Don

Interesting topic. I have about that in my truck and did all the work myself, and it shows. Still not road worthy after near 10 years. Really wishing I could have hired a professional for some of it.
My only goal is for it to function as "showing off" is not an option. haha

Purchased '46 1/2t in 1973 for $250
I have moved 4 times, and Ol’ Blue has stayed with me over the past 43 years. Back in the ‘70s and 80’s I collected many NOS and good used parts with the intention of doing a total frame-off restoration; in fact I felt that I had enough parts to make another good daily driver out of another truck. I have decided that I enjoy Ol’ Blue as a true survivor, and if she were totally restored I would not want to drive her for fear of scratches, stone chips, etc. So instead I have decided to pull out parts from storage and dress her up a little. I have been awarded a dozen trophies varying from 3rd to 1st, one best of show, and a number of peoples's choice. I am not a trophy collector, but it sure is nice to have the old gal noticed.
When elder seniors are asked what they credit the longevity to…the common denominator seems to be: “Use it, or Lose it”. The same goes for Ol’ Blue, she responds better when driven frequently.
List of repairs and updates over the years:
1973- Kingpins
1974- $20 paint, $12 quart, $8 case of beer
1975-used tailgate (had to purchase another truck for this one)
Replaced headliner and paint interior
1977-added American Racing chrome wagon wheel and Firestone Super Sports(Products I sold in the station and Ol’ Blue was a great billboard)Bentz’s Texaco logos
1979-painted and detailed engine compartment-needs it again after 36 years
1989-new windshield and refreshed crank-out option
2008-repainted hood, added rare accessory of RH outside mirror, era correct after-market “marble style” reflectors added to cross brace under tailgate. $1000
2009-40 year old tires and exhaust finally gave up, new Coker WW and NOS muffler. $850
2009-“Trust Your Car to the Man Who Wears the Star” along with the old address/phone number of my station…”Dial 34" and refreshed pin-striping on grille and hood bars. $400
2010-Upholster seat with NOS upholstery that has been setting in my attic for over 30 years.
2013-Replace driver side running board
2013-4-speed speedo gear and speedo head installed, first time for a working speedo in over 40yrs. New dash lights and hood props from 46 GMC installed.
2013-Painted replacement RR fender for future replacement; took it to Tennessee! $400
2014 — Front U-Joint $300
2015-Changed tape white pinstripe to ¼” red
Next-I am still driving on original brakes, lines, w/c, and master cylinder from 1973. I need to update photos in Forum!!!

Archie Bentz
Edgerton, WI moved to Crossville, TN