The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk New guy here! Looking for advice on truck I'm looking at.

Always been interested in the early GM trucks but my first project (67 SS Chevelle) isn't done yet and hadn't planned on a 2nd project. However, I ran across a '52 Chevy pickup down the road from me. I was told that it is a project but "solid", has the original engine which runs good, has a 9 foot box (is this rare?), and is willing to take $900 cash.

I have not looked at it up close yet, just driving by. Besides the typical rust areas, what should I look for? Depending on its shape, is this a good price?

Thanks for any info.

The 9' box says to me that it's a 1-ton, model 3800. Not common at all, but not rare just yet. Don't buy it if you want a hot rod, because they're heavier by far than a 1/2 ton, and not as desirable. However. If you're thinking of a restoration or a truck for heavy work, well.. I sure like mine. Be advised that you might fing the original 5.14 diff ratio. With mine, I had a best cruising speed of 35 - 40mph, and a flat-out maximum of maybe 50 mph with the old 7.00x17" wheels. I've since swapped to 235/85x16" radials (same profile) and a 4.10 ratio, and I am happy.

It runs that is good very good but the motor is the easiest and can be one of the smallest expenses. Check the frame is it straight. Is it rusty. If the frame is bent and rusted then you have alot of work that would destroy any budget. Same with the body. Rust will be found but is it surface rust. Tap it if your fingers goes through it then replacement is neccesary. Again expense and time that will destroy budgets. These are the areas to look at. In my opinion at least. It sounds though like it would be a good project. Also is it a farm truck or a city truck. Farm trucks will be beat up more body wise but most farmers will have there pickups purring like a kitten.

Jump on it! If it runs and drives, then it can be justified, as it can be useful as it is. Then it can be your next project when your ready.
If two projects turn out to be too many, you can always sell that '67 to me.
You can't get much for $900 anymore, make sure the title is good and matches the tag on the truck. If it is not too far gone (rust wise) and is still mostly intact, it doesn't sound like a bad deal. Just remember that it is a heavy duty truck, and if you rather have a 1/2 ton, you would be better off to pass and wait for one.

Welcome to the "Bolt"

John

"Solid" means no cab corners, no cab floor, non-existent rockers, Bullet riddled glass and a bed that is 25% solid. BUY IT, ITS PERFECT!!!