Hi Just over a month ago I bought my '58 Chevy 3800 series tow truck & I thought I'd post up a few details and a brief idea of what's planned. As you probably know, the American vehicle scene is strong over here in England, and has been for many years. I first got involved in 1973 and my first American car was a '58 Chevy Impala running a 283 with 2spd Powerglide. Since then I've owned numerous vehicles and currently have six, the truck being the latest. The Chevy was brought over to this country in 2003 by a truck specialist on behalf of the previous owner, a retired garage owner. This guy started to strip the body (not sure why) but was taken ill before he could carry out any work. Fortunately, having spent most of its life in Texas, any rust is purely surface and there's no rot . I've been given everything that was removed, and it's now labelled and boxed ready for refitting. This includes the original dome light which still works! Although originally running a six the current motor is an early, and sweet running, 350 with 4spd manual box which seems fine. The brake system was overhauled on arrival in England, apart from the emergency brake ........... which barely works The electrics were converted (bodged) to 12 volt, and for peace of mind I've ordered a replacement loom. The towing equipment is complete, and the winch works fine. The original compressor is still fitted and I've located a company who can restore it. Replacing 3 out of the 6 (8R – 19.5) tires will be a big expense, as over here they are priced at $368.00 each! Plan is to tidy the truck but not go for a full resto, funds wouldn’t allow it and I really like it as it is. The sign writing will definitely stay! Anyway, there you have it. Any thoughts or comments will be welcome, and no doubt I’ll be pestering you guys for help as work progresses. Thanks for not falling asleep . Tony
You will have to buy a ford now so you have something to tow.Pictures? With England in the back ground please, I miss it so much.
Already got a Ford......................... and it's broken! Here are some pics including a couple of Box Hill where my workshop is situated. Apologies for size and quailty, but my camera skills are zero!!
The C-50 is a great truck, so I reckon it must make a cool looking tow truck, and 'yes' you must definitely do something with it! How about some pictures and more information. There's a guy about 400 miles north of where I live restoring a '71 C-50 grain truck with a very rough but salvageable 14 foot box. I've asked him for pictures but he says "nothing doing until it's finished"! He did tell me it's got a rebuilt 350 with four speed, and reckons he'll maybe have it on the road by Spring 2010.
I just think this is so cool! I've always said that people who work on old Chevy trucks are some of the nicest people you will ever come across and this proves I'm right. Thanks for the nice picts Tony. Take care, Wes
Hi Wes Sorry it's been a while since I've looked in on the forum, my excuse is that I've been working away from home! Thanks for your kind words which are much appreciated. I see you've owned your '57 for over 30 years, so it must be love!! It would be really cool if you posted some pics on here. I haven't had much time to work on the truck, but we've got a public holiday coming up and I plan to continue with the re-wiring (not a favorite job!). With a bit of luck I'll be taking her for a road test in about 3 weeks time, so I'll let you know how it runs. Cheers Tony
