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I have decided to consider getting 2 trucks for retirement projects. I am 57 (almost). Craigslist searches have yielded mostly much higher prices from what I remember and completeness is worse.
I would like a 48-54 era Chevy or GMC truck. I don't need a 5 window but it would be nice. My budget would be $2500 max. If that makes you laugh, then that's OK, I'll pass. Seen a lot of junk on CL or Facebook for $5000 + where I am sure they have $300 in the truck.
No modifications, I am an original guy.
Would also like to have a two truck collection - either a 1940 to 1946 Chevy 1/2 ton or 3/4 ton OR a 1955 to 1959 ish Chevy truck. Would want to restore these together or one after the other. Want to make a ton of money off a sale to someone? I'm not that guy. Want to make a little and move a non running truck you won't get to in the next 20 years? Consider me.
Doesn't fit his "original guy" concept with the open driveline axle. And too much money IMO, for no engine & transmission.
Kevin First car '29 Ford Special Coupe #2 - '29 Ford pickup restored from the ground up. Newest Project - 51 Chevy 3100 work truck. Photos [flickr.com] Busting rust since the mid-60's
I may have what you want in your price range. 1948 3/4 ton flatbed. All original. Located in mid Missouri. PM me if you want more pictures, info and Stovebolter's references who actually have seen the truck. Here it is at the KC Reunion in 2019. We call it the Chalk Board and let folks sign it and draw on it.
Don
Of all the things I've lost in my life, I miss my mind the most!
Seems to me that even with the title question, the '46 Panel in our For Sale listings is a heck of a deal for someone looking for a project.
Let's not be too harsh here ... the OP has set an ambitious goal so let's do what we can to help him achieve it. Be warned (OP), though, that it may take awhile. I believe there are $2,500 restoreable trucks out there to be found. Not many, to be sure. But if the OP is patient, willing to chase a lot of leads and just plain fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time with the right amount of cash in hand (and a trailer)... Fortune favors the bold, but a little preparedness doesn't hurt
I bet the truck he is looking for is going to be in an estate sale (or something) where it is in among a lot of other "treasures" that the heirs just want to clear out so they can sell the property to a developer. To find (and purchase) those trucks, you have to act quick, even without being able to do a complete survey of the truck.
Any other thoughts?
John "Paul! Klaatu barada nikto. KLAATU BARADA NIKTO!!!!"
I learned a few lessons over the past years about me and this hobby. One is- temper my enthusiasm. If I was more deliberate and carefully planned projects, I certainly would have had more focus on one or two than 5 or six.
But, I won’t beat myself up too much - each project has brought its share of its own challenges and opportunities to grow. So really, there is no point in judging whether this approach is better or worse, or right or wrong over the next person who chooses to go at it and take a different path.
After-all for whatever it is that inspires and motivates one person, may not be the same for another - and in the end, it’s the journey of learning and then sharing and teaching that counts.
But, it is wise - to pay more up front for the best base condition starter truck than, cheaping out on one to be a penny wise but a pound foolish - on a cheap truck that is going to require a lot of work and probably more money in the end than a good and solid restoration candidate.
I understand his motivation.
Last edited by tom moore; Tue Nov 24 2020 07:15 PM.
I was not looking for another project, but a Army Jeep popped up near me that caught my attention. It came with tons of extra parts and it was an all or nothing deal, the seller just wanted it ALL gone. After selling off about half of the parts I now own the Jeep for free.
Having cash in hand can make things happen...tire kickers don't get the deals. Just don't forget to ask to see the clean title before you hand over any money...
