I figured it out...at least I think I did.

I want to take my time to get the sheet metal and paint as perfect as I can. Since I do all my own work this may take me some time so I had the bright idea to see if someone locally (well within 300 miles) would have a truck or body that I could buy cheap to throw on my almost ready to go chassis (need to complete exhaust). Well the first search I did found what you now see in my garage ($400). Glass is good (three small chips in the front, perfect rear, perfect door, cracked vent glass but holding together). The guy gave me a set of running boards which I do not have. They are rusty and banged up a bit but it is better than nothing (came with all 4 supports still mounted to running boards). He also gave me an original instrument cluster which I didn’t have that is in perfect condition and a set of flawless chrome headlightrings. The grill with V8 emblem is actually in better condition than mine(less dents). Rust is ate through in the usual spots (floor boards in twospots where the driver sits and all 4 cab corners. I do not plan to fixthe cab corners at this time but will repair with patch panels the floor pan beforeuse. Also there is one major dent I can work out in the driver’sdoor. Since I have had the body I have wet sanded the tail gate, driver’sdoor and cab firewall to bring back the original color. In the wetsanding I have noticed the original paint has come back easy with the surfacerust removal. As soon as I get the mufflers bought and the rest of theexhaust completed I will be putting this sheet metal on the frame. <o></o

 

Its a little time consuming but I really like your idea and plan, This will give you all the time you need to finish the body panels to your liking and you'll be driving around town with that big ol'smile we like so much.

On the negative side this could prolong your finished product because you'll be out driving around town when you should be sanding.

 

Or you'll have some millionaire offer you big bucks for it as is because of the amazing patina! Then you'll have to start over again on a new chassis for your sheet metal.

 

Great idea and at a great price. Wish I could find one for that price because I would do the same thing.

 

Hey Stephen,
I like your creative thinking!!!! Plus you got a screaming deal!
I looked for just doors down here in Austin & they wanted $500 for just that.

Looking good up there! Post your first drive clip when it happens!

Ben in Austin
1950 F1

 

Good idea, and you hit a home run on that deal! Of course, now you'll be looking for an extra rolling chassis.

 

that is a great deal congratulations

 

great find and better price...

 

wow, very cool idea. You can make it "day time" "dry weather" driveable with about 5 wires.

 

I like the way you think.
Oh sure, its a little extra work but I think it will pay off in the long run. Its great to have a running truck, something you can get in and cruise. Especially when you fall into the inevitable rut when the project seems overwhelming and will never be finished.


Good luck
Bobby

 

Wow does THAT plan sound familiar. First you get a plan to build something less than what you really want. Then as the build progresses you find something that is better than you have so your plan takes a turn. Later it happens again...and again...and again. Next thing you know you are building a truck that looks nothing like what you had originally planned and much to your amazement it has taken twice as long and cost three times as much. Oh yeah, the original sheet metal is still taking up space in the garage awaiting the meticulous restoration work.


This is MY story, you will have your own but don't be surprised if your story ends up a lot like mine (and more than a few others).

 

I can relate to that!

 

LOL I would have that body on a dakota chassis in a weekend! You guys in the south are spoiled rotten!