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Been doing some thinking lately (uh-oh!) and have come to the conclusion that I would like to buy an old truck and restore it. I've always wanted to restore an old vehicle of some kind with a late 50's-mid 60's VW Bug being first on the list because of my history with them in my family.

But, I also really like the body styles on the 50's trucks from various manufactuers and have settled on the 1959 Chevy Apache. Preferrably with a stepside, short bed but I don't mind the long bed either. If it had the wrap-around back window I would consider that a bonus.

What do you guys think about that choice of truck? Thoughts, concerns, anything?

The Apache is tied with the Ford F100's of the 50's, in my heart and mind, either has a cool factor that is off the charts, repro parts are readily available. A 40's or 50's PU is on my wishlist.

Unless you're  totally set on a pickup, also consider a sedan delivery. Just my 2 cents   

I like it.  It reminds me of my Uncles truck back in the seventies down south.  Not sure what he had, but I always liked the fifties look in cars and trucks.

I love the Apaches but like most old trucks they don't have any resale value. If I bought one I would either buy one already restored or in top condition. You can find cars and trucks with $30,000-$50,000 in a restoration for sale for $15,000-$30,000. It might take awhile to find one but you can. My brother has a shop full of old 50-60's VW's and 2-1940 Ford Trucks. He hasn't done anything with them for 20+ years. The 40 Fords are about the most desirable trucks but still don't bring big money when restored. You might want to call my brother and talk to him if you want a VW.

Yeah, I have to agree, buy one already restored.

Also, No resale value in these old things. Unless you start looking a the 69-72 cheyenne. For some reason they have a following. There prices top out in the high teens, low twenties.

I traded out my new chevy Silverado for a 1972 Cheyenne and I have to say it was the best decision I have made lately. Easier to repair and much less expensive. Whenever I need a change I can update the truck. And best of all, it is really cool to pick-up my most recent find in this old truck.

I like the pictures of the Apache you posted. Great looking truck.

Oh yeah. My truck isn't worth a darn because I bought the one I wanted so I could use it to haul stuff in, a long bed fleet side. If it were short bed step side it would be worth twice as much.

My friend just bought an old 1950 F1 that somebody turned into a wrecker years ago.
(http://i266.photobucket.com/albums/ii276/dragwagon63/1950fordtowtruck003.jpg)
(http://i266.photobucket.com/albums/ii276/dragwagon63/1950fordtowtruck008.jpg)
Not really going to go for a full resto, but get the brakes and lights working and drive it.

Talk about cool factor off the charts!!!!!
LOL!!!
Terry

i have a '51 and '52 chevy deluxe cab pickups.  one shortbed one long bed. one has original 6 cyl, other 327 w/400 trans. both projects.  sell them cheap.

I would love to have a stock Model T pick-up but for something more recent I have always been a fan of the GMC Handi-van and the Corvair Greenbrier.  I know--unsafe at any speed--but still cool! 8)

 :drinking: Tim :drinking:

I'm detecting a trend in the "buy a restored one" category. Half the fun for me is fixing it up myself!!!(or as much as my skill level allows me!) Thanks for being honest though, I appreciate it.

I'm not really interested in a 60's-70's truck just because they don't do anything for me. Living in Indiana, I see a TON of typically 70's and on up trucks with a few late 60's running around still.

Any other suggestions?

Brian,to me it's the same thought as a pop machine, 
Buy what you like.

The only other thoughts I have is  go with a step side short bed. Oh, and maybe do it in Coke Yellow =)

I've heard both sides as well Brian, I too love the 50's era trucks however I personally like the early 50's chevy's big bubble front end with birght chrome Grill.. yeah! People in the hobby tell me that know me,, just buy restored, as you'll get to enjoy it sooner than later.. but I see your side too..
I have 59 Corvette that I bought all done , and needed nothing for me to enjoy when I first got it other than brakes.. so it all depends on what you want, and how soon you want it..
Good luck on your quest!

I've always been a big fan of the 1948-1950 Ford F-1 and F-2 trucks.  I'm buying the one pictured below this month.  It's a 1950 F-2 and it's in good condition, just needs a bit of engine work.  Has been a nice looking daily driver, just not a show restoration.  I'll save that for later, and just enjoy as is for now.

Thanks guys, Now you got me thinking i need to revise my wish list =)

John,

Call me hard-headed but, even if I had the disposable $$$ to throw at a perfectly restored oldie I would still more than likely buy a beater and restore it.  :biggrin:  I'm just wierd like that!

Actually it's aids me in another endeavor that I am working on finalizing right now. If I buy an old truck to restore that the wife likes, it justifies the building of a detatched garage even more to restore it / house it in. She already want's me to build one so that I can convert the existing 2-car attatched into a scrapbooking room / playroom!  :laugh: So....this is all a part of my not-so-crafty plan, you see!

In reality I think the garage will probably come first. (I hope)

Greg,

That's a sharp looking truck, let us know how things go with it!!

Brian I restored mine in 1985. I had well over $10K in it and sold it for far less than that. I miss it everyday. The color was exactly like yours.....Powderpuff Blue. It really turned heads and was a straight 6.  :darn: