Topic: 1937 1 1/2 ton restoration


comerz1    -- 10-22-2011 @ 11:22 PM
  Hello everyone. New member, hope you don't mind some questions.

We are restoring a '37 1 1/2 ton for a customer. I have been researching this truck for days and already banging my head against a wall. Haven't disassembled yet but as of now I know I will need most all of the front end parts, i.e. hood, fenders, grille sh*ll and grille, running boards, at least a driver's door, and patch panels on the cab.

Hoping you guys can point me in the right direction to look for parts. Have checked out Capenter's, Mac's, and Drake. So far I am not finding much in the way of parts. This will be our oldest "restoration" to like factory specs, have done other cars/trucks from 20's and 30's but always rodded them.

Finally found in the forum that the front fenders are different than the pick ups, what about the running boards? Will it be difficult to find parts to rebuild the rear axle, suspension, steering, etc?

Thanks in advance for any help you can provide me.

Chris


alanwoodieman    -- 10-23-2011 @ 9:44 AM
  truck parts are hard to find but there are several people who do have them
Southside Obsolet507-332-6789
Antique Auto Supply-817-275-2381
Joblot-718-468-8585
Chuck's Trucks-203-288-2769
there are others but this should get you started


supereal    -- 10-23-2011 @ 9:51 AM
  Chris: Finding parts, particularly sheet metal, for big trucks is a very tough proposition. While they share some parts with the pickups, most don't. The basic problem is that these trucks were usually run until little was left, reducing chances of finding a "donor" vehicle. I wish I could be more encouraging, but perhaps someone can give you better info. The chances of restoring your project to "like factory specs" is likely to take more time and money than the end result could justify.


comerz1    -- 10-24-2011 @ 7:52 AM
  alanwoodieman; Thanks for that information. I think I have already called a couple of those, but great sources!

supereal; Not very encouraging. I have had several people tell me everything was the same on the cab and front end with the exception of the front fenders. Not saying you are wrong or they are wrong, will just require more research to be sure. The last thing I want to do is buy parts that are not correct. I agree with you on ending up with more time and money than the end result would justify, but I learned long ago to not question what someone wants. This was a family farm truck and the gentleman wants to get it back in shape as a memory of his roots I suppose. When I say "like factory specs" I only mean I want it to mostly look period correct, I think it will actually look slicker than it did new, but I don't think the customer wants to "street rod" it so to speak, therefore I want to be as accurate as possible when replacing parts.

I appreciate the help from you guys and if anyone else has any knowledge on these trucks please let me know.


1932BB    -- 10-24-2011 @ 9:42 AM
  The Chassis Parts List does indicate that the big truck fenders were different than pickup fenders. However the same fenders were used on the big truck for 35,36, and 37.
Super is correct. Most big trucks were run hard and not many were/are cherished as family heirlooms. During the war years they were either used up or recycled. Some donor trucks may exist in dryer parts of the country but chances are nobody knows what they have in the scr*p pile.
You may want to enlist the owners of the truck in the hunt for parts.
I looked at an unrestored 37 1.5 at the farm of Chester K, just west of Bruce Crossing Michigan quite a few years ago. Who knows, It may still be around.
Call the bowling alley or the gas station. They may be able to give you a number.



supereal    -- 10-24-2011 @ 9:53 AM
  I don't mean to be discouraging, just realistic. I've been restoring for over 50 years, and made most of the mistakes. Beware of those who think they know if parts will fit, until you match the numbers from a body parts catalog. Due to the difference in wheel size and ground clearance, parts such as fenders and running boards seldom fit both light and heavy trucks. Same is true for running gear, rear axles and transmissions. Less common models, such as cab-overs, can merit investment because there is always a market. But "ordinary" types of larger trucks can be difficult to sell when the inevitable time comes. Most, if not all, vehicle restorations are done to recapture the memory of a vehicle we, or our parents once owned, or one we wanted years ago. That is the life blood of the hobby. Sorry for the "cold water", and good luck with your quest.


Henry    -- 10-24-2011 @ 6:28 PM
  My dad has a 1937 1.5ton dump truck that is all stock and has a few extra parts: doors, fenders and would like to sell them. His e-mail is: gung@kear.tds.net, He is also a member of club and lives in NH. My brother has a 1936 1.5ton dump truck with some extra parts as well. !935-37 big truck body parts are the same with exception to hood and grill; doors are the same on outside but a little bit different on the inside. My brother's e-mail is: stephen.otto@usmc.mil, he is member as well. I have a 1934 pickup and have helped both restore their trucks. A photo of my truck is on the V8 web sight in photos of trucks. Trucks are different but just a fun as cars, they just go slower. Henry

Henry
Bhotto1928@aol.com


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