A Guide to Selecting a Project Truck - All Makes

WHO ARE YOU?

Some of our most frequently asked questions are "What truck is the best truck to restore" and "What should I look out for when buying a project truck"? In the following article we will attempt to help answer these questions and provide some insight into the selection of a project truck.

I submit to you the following opinions and advice, which is based on my experiences and observations of over 50 years of indulging in the automotive hobby.

Something you might what to consider in your selection process, are your needs and your end goals?   For most hobbyist the end goal is a great looking truck which can be driven daily and provide for a safe and comfort ride.

A term I feel best describes this process is "Restification". The term "Restification" denotes a reconditioning process that will incorporate modern improvements into an older technology.

An example of this would be the improvement of the braking system on early trucks. While this is not an extensive modernization, the original concept of the truck is not alter. The increased safety adds to the derivability of vehicle, thus making it more fun to drive.

POPULAR IS EASIEST

As a rule, sticking to the more popular trucks makes the restoration of the truck much easier. This is due to the easy availability of aftermarket parts. The later model trucks by virtue of production length and the large number still on the road are going to be easier to find part for. This is not to say you should avoid other types of trucks. A good, complete, original truck of any model makes for an excellent project.

The best way to buy any truck is to select a truck that is complete and in the best possible condition you can afford. I would not recommend purchasing basket cases or trucks that the owner has given up on a restoration. Unless these trucks are dirt cheap, walk away. Usually the shear number of missing parts makes these trucks cost prohibitive. Walk away from trucks that are just too much for you to tackle.

The first time restorer should look for a running truck. A non-running truck that sits around in your garage is not going to be very popular around the house. If you can drive it while you work on it, you will enjoy your truck much more. Of coarse, you will have to lay the truck up for short periods of time to do upgrades and repairs. But, then your back on the road, enjoying your project.

CHEVROLET: Pre-War 1938 - 1942

These trucks are antiques in comparison to more modern trucks. Pre-war truck design remain pretty much unchanged until shortly after W.W.II. These trucks have very small cabs and are pretty much off shoots of the car lines. Parts availability is fair to good. Body parts are fair. They are more rare and demand somewhat higher prices than the later trucks. These trucks tend to be too expensive to restore and driven on a daily bases for the first time restorer. These trucks wind up as Sunday drivers and show trucks. Pre-War trucks present more of a challenge to restore and are a more costly project. I don't recommend an early truck for the first restoration or if you are on a small budget. [more]

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