While most people learn from their mistakes, I on the other hand seem to be quite proficient at repeating them. No matter what it's been, whether it was something I shouldn't have been doing in the first place or something that just turned out bad in the end, chances are, I'd do it again. Punishment has netted the same results as warnings--they've had little to no affect on me in general. It's not so much that I'm a bad listener, rebellious (well...), or even that I thrive on generating bad mojo, but that's just what I've got--bad mojo--and I can deal with it...I think. Well, that's probably why I agreed to my latest venture without putting as much thought into it as I'll probably will wish I had eventually down the road.
As the accompanying pic may suggest, I am the proud papa of a brand-new project. Just as I needed an eighth or ninth hole in my head, I have committed myself (yeah, I know--should be the other way around!) to yet another lengthy truck to-do: As of this past April, my plate is even fuller, as I made room for a full helping of '47 Chevy ('47-50, if you want to get technical). Unlike ventures past, this one's a little different in that I'm literally starting "fresh"--nothing old, nothing borrowed. Yep, we're going all aftermarket (or as close as possible), from the cab to the chassis and everything in between the bumpers.
Up until recently, it wasn't possible to build a '47-53 Chevy truck from "scratch". For the most part, `50s to '60s Chevy trucks are still fairly plentiful, though not quite as affordable as they were just a few years ago. But as time passes, not only will the surplus diminish, but the quality will fade, leaving potential buyers with the task of repairing Mother Nature's dirty work--great for the suppliers of replacement parts, but not so great on the consumer's pocket. Now, thanks to companies like Chevs of the 40's, if you feel like building a complete '47-50 or '52-53 you don't even have start with an original cab, as they stock all-new ones complete with pre-hung doors. Additionally, all the remaining sheetmetal required to make a truck a truck--fenders, running boards, etc.--can also be acquired from the same source...that's right, no swap meet scouring, wrecking yard ravaging, or used parts haggling. (The complete bed, however, will be ordered direct through Mar-K.)
The chassis is no exception, either. While it's relatively easy to update a stock frame accordingly, you do have the option of going with a complete roller, such as the supporting foundation for this project that was made by Fatman Fabrications. For a complete build, starting with something that requires less of you is something to really consider--not having to install an IFS, box the frame, add motor/trans mounts, or address the rear suspension is a plus for me, as it will allow me to focus on other time-consuming aspects.
Leave it to me to take advantage of an opportunity such as this--I got what I asked for! All kidding aside, this should make for quite an interesting project on both sides of the spectrum, as not only will I get the luxury of building the truck, you'll get to see it all unfold. My game plan as a whole still has a few kinks to work out, but with a rolling chassis, cab, complete bed, and the majority of sheetmetal, I've got plenty to start with for now--stay tuned.