1948 Chevy Chevrolet 5 window flatbed dump
If you have followed any of my auctions, you know I rescue quite a few old farm trucks from rotting away beside the old barn. I do also end up with a few Chevy's of this vintage from time to time. What I don't find very often, however, is the highly sought after five window model, with the beautiful looking corner glass in the cab. This is one such model.
This truck came from an arid part of western Kansas, and the truck reflects this. It does have a couple of small spots of rust, as this is a 68 year old truck and western Kansas isn't quite a desert, but overall pretty clean and straight. I try to get pictures of any and all rust or major defects in my listings, so nothing is hidden. You can tell this truck was well cared for, as it has a lot less dents/dings than the average farm truck as well, but still has some from its working days.
By the previous owners best estimate, this old truck had been sitting approximately 15 years. It took nothing but some gas and a battery to get it running again. The engine has, at some point, been changed out to the more modern, but still original looking 235 engine, instead of the 216 it would have left the factory with. This is a very nice upgrade, not simply because of the displacement and power, but also the full pressure oiling system, it is much more durable. I did have to pinch off the vacuum line going to the brake booster (yes it has power brakes) to get it to idle decent. Evidently there is a vacuum leak somewhere in a hose or the booster itself. The engine idles smooth, revs smooth, doesn't heat up and doesn't smoke, although I would plan on a thorough tune up simply due to age.
I did fill the master cylinder with brake fluid, and after some pumping, the brakes began to work, but like most of these old trucks that have sat awhile, the master cylinder started leaking, so the brakes will need some attention. It will also need a new ignition switch, it moves, but no longer functions. I simply have a jumper wire from battery to coil to make it run. The truck will need a battery, I used a 12 volt battery to get it running, but is a 6 volt system. 12 volt battery will work for loading, unloading purposes, but will damage ignition, lights, etc if used long term. This truck does have a hydraulic operated dump bed, operated via PTO, and it works great, smooth up & down. The tires have some tread and hold air fine, but are old and pretty weathered. At some point, the driver side door was changed put and it now has a later model door. Opens and closed just fine, only difference is the wing window and push button door handle. I have another one from a '53 for the passenger side that I will throw in with the sale if you want it, that way they will match. The seat will need to be reupholstered, I simply covered it in some of Salvation Army's finest linens to keep from sitting on old foam and springs.
As all of these old Chevy's were (at least in Kansas) this truck was titled with the engine number from the factory. As I said, engine has been upgraded, so now the title doesn't match. This is common, and in Kansas is no big deal. About a week prior to listing, I applied for a new title matching the VIN. I have done this many times before. It takes the state about 30 days to issue the new title. So - I have the original title and Kansas bill of sale to go with truck, and I guarantee a clean, clear title in my name that matches the VIN in approx. 30 days. Please check my feedback, its 100%, and I don't let people down.
Overall, if you are looking for a project that is 90% ready to drive, this would be great for you. If you are somewhat mechanical, you can have this going up and down the road with a couple of weekends worth of work. Great for a father son type project, something to teach him the basics, but not an overwhelming project that's in pieces. Just keep in mind that any of these old trucks that have sat for years generally need a little TLC here and there. If you have any questions, please feel free to call or text Cort at 620-786-5172. I don't mind truck sitting here awhile as long as its paid for and as long as it doesn't stretch into months. I'm happy to help with any arrangements I'm able to. Thank you and good luck.