Believe the hype-image IS everything! And that goes for the classic trucks we all like to drive. That image translates into personal preferences, which can be relayed through both stance and exterior attire. While the stance of my truck is pretty much set until further notice, certain aspects of the attire needed a little addressing. Point in case here, the front end's ensemble...the accessories.
When purchased, the '53 was in decent shape, but some areas needed definite attention, primarily the accessories such as the grille and bumpers. I was faced with two distinct options: remove, disassemble, and replate the existing parts (the bumpers were worn-out repros, however, the grille appeared to be original) or simply purchase some quality repop parts. Not wanting to drive the truck around half-naked, the solution was obvious. What company, though, could provide not only the items I was after, but the best reproductions on the market? Despite the number of quality retailers I was left to consider, geography played a major part in my choice of going with Brothers. Being just a quick trip down the freeway helped, as I didn't have to worry about mail order (even though that's never been a problem with any company), but after seeing the high-level part they offered, I knew I'd made the right decision.
Brothers offers pretty much everything to restore the exterior (and interior for that matter) of your '47-53 Chevy 1/2-ton. They also offer the same wide array of products for Chevy and GMC pickups clear through '87, as well. For the '53's weekend makeover, I ordered a complete grille and front bumper with new stainless hardware. While I was at the store, I also found out that their new reproduction Fulton-style sun visors were finally available. Having little success scoring a decent original Fulton from eBay, and even worse luck with swap meet prices, I figured this was the right opportunity to get a nice visor for the pickup and end my headaches. After some time BS'ing with the Brothers sales staff, I loaded my pickup with the goods and headed home.
The following day, which happened to be a cherished "free" Saturday, I drove the old Chevy down to a pal's shop for a little frontal R&R. Not surprisingly, we had the old grille out and swapped, the front bumper replaced, and the aluminum visor painted and installed in no time. As you will see, the image of the '53 has improved greatly, and while there still may be a lot left to tend to, it's coming along nicely as the budget permits.
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 The flaking, weatherworn chrome...  The flaking, weatherworn chrome on the bumper and grille is very reflective of the '53's overall fatigued look. While body and paint are not "financially" in the near future for the 3100, replacing accessories here and there did fit the budget, not to mention improved the appearance of the truck. |
 First on the Brothers shopping...  First on the Brothers shopping list to install on the Chevy was the reproduction Fulton-style sun shield. Nearly identical to the original visors (minor exceptions include hardware and dogbone markings), they are assembled and installed just like the originals. |
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 Available in the same baked...  Available in the same baked green paint as their predecessors, the visors can be used as-is or painted to match your truck. For the time being, this one will run in a urethane black suede until the aforementioned body and paint. The visor's aluminum construction calls for care when handling (heavy hands will cause more work), so use caution when prepping the side panels. |
 Assembly of the sun shield...  Assembly of the sun shield is fairly straightforward; however, brief instructions are provided. We came across an online source that provides a reprint of the original Fulton Sun Shield instruction manual (www.indfloorcoating-repair.com/fultonsunshield.htm), which is not only handy to have, but is a cool piece of memorabilia. Fortunately, the adjustability of the visor allows plenty of room for error. |