Vintage Shop Trucks rule. A faithful hauler with greasy suspension parts in the bed, but still looks killer where it counts. There's something nice and honest about a truck being used for it's intended purpose- Work! I'm not opposed to "show" trucks ... <BR><BR>To read the rest of this blog entry from The Jalopy Journal, click here.
Some good pictures on this thread I started a little while back http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=861691
To be honest, even though the Kopper Kart is classified as a "show truck", it probably had more miles on it than the real "work trucks". Our research showed pictures of it, i, many, many states, all across the country, going to and from shows. Often, the on-the-road pics, had some things removed (lakes pipes, TV antenna, hubcaps) and with the tonneau cover strapped down and sometimes luggage stowed on top of it! It was one of the few cars titled in George's name, and probably was beat up on a LOT.
I always liked the "my auto upholstery" model a shop truck from the late 50's.....except for the pastel pink color. I always liked it in the black n white photos better. Killer proportions too...I will see if I can find a picture..
Much agreed! Custom Rodder, Sept, '61 indicated that the truck had more than 40k miles. Of course the multiple times (driving) across the country contributed greatly. No trailer queen there!
So this thread will not be complete with out the Alexander Brother's Shop truck "Grasshopper" http://www.customclinic.com/fullcust/Abros/shoptruck/shoptruck.html
What about Roy Desbrow's chopped and channeled 32 pickup? At the time he worked at a muffler shop together with Duffy Livingstone, he who invented the cart. And also the socal plating special.
I don't see any mention and/or photos of Joe Bailon's 55 Chevy truck in this thread or the Hitchhiker's tread.
Growing up in Tulsa (60s-70s), I remember seeing the Chuck Porter truck at shows in the area ( and occasionally on the street) with absolutely no clue about it's history. I just thought it was an unusually customized truck. It is cool to now know the story behind the truck.
I recently checked out the Chuck Porter yellow truck at the NHRA museum in Pomona, and I gotta say, I'm in love. Its super slick and classy in person. If you live in SoCal, get to the NHRA and check it out!