The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Tons 'o Fun '46 (?) Fire Truck

OK, I am new at this so bear with me. I bought what I believe is a 1946 Chevy pumper fire truck. I want to validate that it is a '46 and that it is a one ton (I believe). There is a serial number on a worn cowl panel plate that reads
21PW-H3863 Can anyone determine the info I am looking for based on this number? What else should I check that might shed some light on this?
I am retiring at the end of next month and this is my "retirement project." I am handy, but this is the first time I am undertaking anything like this. Any advice on where I should start. I need a new radiator and fuel pump to get started. What are some good sources to get parts for my "Firebolt?" Thanks, guys.

Welcome to Stovebolt, Firebolt!

According to the VIN Buster (located in the Tech Tips), your truck is a 2-ton built in August of '46 at the Janesville, WI plant.

You ought to check out the Firebolt forum in the Big Bolts section -- those guys should be able to give you a ton of advice and help.

As for parts -- check out the Links section for parts for the "truck" part of your truck. Parts for the "Fire" part will depend upon who made the pump/body for your truck. Lots of stuff is still available, even from those manufacturers who are still in business. Check out the Links section for those sources, too.

Oh yeah, there's a pretty good article in the tech Tips about restoring a Firebolt, too.

Welcome aboard! Now show us some pictures!

CMB

Wow, Closetmoparboy! What a great bunch of info you laid on me so quickly! You've got me fired up now. I've already gone to a couple of those links you suggested and found a wealth of information. What a gold mine. I cannot tell you how glad I am that I found this site and how happy I am over your quick response. Timing is great on this as I will begin my restoration around the end of March. Will put a picture on the site as soon as I figure out how to do that. Thanks again, my friend!

Glad to help. As for posting a picture, go to the Welcome centre and introduce yourself, then post in the DITY Gallery. John Lucas can get you set up with a gallery entry.