A subframe job is a lot of work and if not done right, the truck can be
pretty much ruined. There are good and bad examples. My article at
www.Chevytrucks.org (Pacer IFS) has some background on the whole IFS deal.
But radial tires, disc brakes and a total rebuild of the original front end
will result in a safe, almost as pleasant ride.
The market for pure stock restored old trucks is pretty sparse, at least in
this neck of the woods. I wouldn't be concerned about de-valuing by
modifying the front end. Anyway, it sounds like you are going to be hanging
on to your Apache for a while - take your time and decide what you really
want for your son (and yourself) in the end. Go to some AACA shows and
street rod events too. Look around, ask questions, listen, and see how
people really use their trucks - and how much fun they have doing it. Then
go your own way!
Jack / Winter Park FL
----- Original Message -----
From: K & B <apache58truck@hotmail.com>
To: <oletrucks@autox.team.net>
Sent: Tuesday, June 29, 1999 5:41 PM
Subject: [oletrucks] To cut, or not to cut...
> Hi Folks-
>
> Well... we've only had our Ole 59 Apache for about a week now and many of
> you have been very helpful with your ideas and suggestion for how to get
> started. We've also spoken to several people (local folks) who have
offered
> their thoughts as we try to decide how to proceed.
>
> Here's one big problem that seems to be facing us (boy... what an
education
> we're getting here!). Some people feel that since the eventual goal is
for
> my son (now 8) to have a safe driving truck in 8 to 9 years... we should
cut
> off the front frame of the truck and weld on one from a "late model car".
> Others feel that if I do that we will forever lose the antique value of
the
> truck.
>
> What to do?! We know that there's a lot of experience here on the list so
we
> hope to learn more about the pros and cons.
>
> Thanks to all who have educated us so far-
>
> K&B 59 Apache 3600 Fleetside
>
>
> oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
>
oletrucks is devoted to Chevy and GM trucks built between 1941 and 1959
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