Vehicle Requirements
February, 2003

We all know that finding a used vehicle is not an easy, or fun, process.  This task can be even more difficult for the "mechanically challenged" among us.  I feel like I've done my research, so I know what I am looking for.  Some rules that I have set for myself:

• Truck must be within driving distance to get.  I don't want to go through the expense to have something shipped - nor do I want to take the time to trailer one back.
     
• Truck must be able to get home under it's own power.  As I squirrel away parts and money, I will want to use the truck, so a "runs good" condition is a must.
     
• Truck must not have excessive rust or body damage.  I expect to see rust in the usual places, but I will be checking for excessive rust or filler.
     
• "Stock-ness" - I don't want a vehicle that has had any changes in the original appearance, body, or frame.  From looking at a lot of parts catalogs, I have an idea what is generally available.  Also, I really don't want a lot of mechanical changes either - I don't know who has been working on it.  Again, I want to be able to drive the truck until the real work begins.
     
• "Options" - Based on what was available at the time of original production, I'm lumping the trucks into some general categories: Short-Bed vs Long-Bed, Step-side vs Fleet-side, wrap-around rear window vs small window, side mounted spare, and 6 cylinder vs V8.  After discussions with my wife*, I decided on a short-bed, step-side, wrap-around window truck.  Side mounted spare would be nice.  I don't care about the engine size.
     
  * When I got my mind set on the 55-59 series trucks, I knew next that I would have to convince my wife.  As I was showing her pictures of trucks, I used her likes as the criteria.  I didn't matter to me - I like them all!  I should also mention that Sarah has been very tolerant of my obsession.

Project Goals
   
I will not build a "show truck".  I will not build a "hot rod".  I will not  do a "classic restore".  I want to create a "retro daily driver".  Objectives (in no particular order):

• The appearance of the truck must be as close to original as possible.  I will do my best to recreate the body, bed, paint, and interior.
     
• The frame, suspension, engine and transmission will be updated to better suit the needs of today's streets and highways.
     
• Safety features such as brakes and seat belts will be updated.
     
• I want to do as much of the work myself as I can.  I will only outsource those things where purchasing a tool/equipment is not realistic.

Now, the search is under way.  As we move through the project, you and I will have to decide how closely I am meeting my goals.

Once we find a truck, click here