The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Tons 'o Fun 3800 Panel Truck Question's

My first post on my 1954 3800 panel . . . .

As a new participant, I’m challenging you “one ton” folks with a couple questions:

1. Trying to replace my rear wheel brake cylinders have become a problem. I have ordered twice from major companies and received boxes marked “W18010." The actual cylinder is embossed “18034.” These do not bolt in place. If I made it work by fitting the cylinder lower, the rods to shoe are at an angle.

2. I have one replaced fender that seems to be a lighter metal gauge then the others. The replaced one is an original with old paint. Are all sheet metals the same gauge? My truck's three other fenders seem very strong.

Thanks in advance for any help.

Is the thin fender a front or a rear? I suspect its an old replacement, but don't know that with any certainty.

The fender in question is the right front. My left front fender you can stand on, the right might dent with the weight.

Thanks for info.

I bet its been replaced with a non-factory reproduction. It might have happened years ago, but most likely that is what happened.

You might be better off getting your original cyliners rebuilt.

Did they make dually Panels?
If so, That would be awesome!
If not someone should make one!

Until sometime in the 30's GM make 1/2-ton and 1-1/2 ton panels. I believe the 1-1/2 ton had duals. I think that cut-off is 1937 or 1938 but I don't recall exactly, and it was a little before my time.

By the time the Advance Design trucks came out GM was making 1/2-ton and 1-ton panels and they were all single wheel designs and far as I know any GM Suburban, panel, or van you see that was made after 1940 that has duals is someone's custom work.

Thanks man, your a walking dictionary when it comes to Chev/GMC.
But hey I am too when it comes to Ford...

Just so you know, I recieved the correct rear wheel cyl. from "Chevs of the 40's". They fit correctly, however they are set up for 3/16 brake lines, so I purchased 1/4 to 3/16 connectors from local auto parts store. I'm on my way to completing the brakes!!!!!

Karl

I've got brakes finaly after 6 years of sitting in garage, just adjusting parking brakes now. Maybe the panel will be on the streets this year!

Karl

Drive on over for a celebratory beer!

Hey oldsub, I'll pass on the invite. To many miles for fist trip, thanks for idea for my fist trip out, for beers!!!!

If you came here I'd buy!

Thanks for the invite. All brakes are working now including the parking brakes. Not test driven yet. Too cold, want to rebuild carb fist.