I'm debating on restoring an old 40 or 50 model pickup, but have no idea or anything about what to do w/ restoration. About how much cost could be wrapped up in totally restoring one and are there any websites that are devoted to it? Thanks for all the help guys.

 

It really depends on how involved you want to get into a restoration. Everyone has a different idea as what a "restoration" is. The big question is do you have the time and ability to do it yourself. If you do, then go for it. There's lots of web sites out there that are devoted to a particular make or series trucks. I'm restoring a 1950 Ford F-1 truck and I find a lot of info on 3-4 sites. I know there's more, but these suit my needs. My truck is undergoing a frame up resto. I ripped it down to a bare frame and I'm building it back to completely stock shape. Some don't tear it down that far. Many vary from the original configuration by adding modern brakes, drive train, etc... It boils down to what you want when it's done. There's many, many sites for parts, local swap meets in your area, Hershey swap meets, Carlisle meets. There are the sites I mentioned above with lots of good guys that can help you with info, parts,etc... I've made a few friends along the way also. In my book, it's something you won't regret doing.

Barry

 

THANKS FOR ALL THE HELP! What websites are you talking about. I've seen alot of websites, but they have nothing more than just a couple before and after pictures. I need some more technical assistance or documentation. If you could give me those websites you were talkin' about, I would really appreciate it. I hope it's not as hard as I'm making it out to be. If an engine didn't run, it was either no fire or no gas. I'm sure I'm downplaying it a good bit, but from the looks of it, it looks like I'll have to be going a long way to find those late model trucks, b/c I can't find one locally. All they have are Dodges around here <gag>.

Thx again!

 

send me your email address and I'll send you a copy of an article I wrote on restoration vrs building a street truck and what I've encountered... it's too long to post here and the article is at work anyway...
please send me a post to and I'll forward what I have tomorrow...

hope I can help you decide to do it..

john