1962 Apache
 

Hi everyone. I generally lurk on the Blazer forum but my neighbor is selling a 1962 Apache and I confess I am intrigued. It is sooooo ugly that it is beautiful.

It has rust for days at the bottom of each of the fenders and the doors: I just want to check that this is generally repairable (I have a bodyshop guy) and not a structural issue (assuming the frame is good).

It has a straight six which I am unfamilar with, and I'm wondering if there are any flags to look for there?

Its a manual 4 on the floor - are the transmissions generally bullet proof or are there common issues?

Re: 1962 Apache
 

All the necessary parts are available reproduced except the 10 bolt rearend, it’s a little high to replace parts and little gear selection

Re: 1962 Apache
 

So basically whatever is wrong can be replaced / rebuilt. That's great. All I need to know is if there are signs that I need to look for that could be costly repairs that would preclude running - this is a low budget 'run as is and fix over a long period' thing.

Re: 1962 Apache
 

I always look for rot at the rain gutter area, also inside above the windshield, and above the doors. As you can imagine that kind of rot is a bear to fix. If it gets really bad it rots the A pillars too. Not saying it cant be fixed. Just depends on your resources and how deep you want to get into it.

Re: 1962 Apache
 

looks like a 1961 to me..1962was single headlights different body style also.

Re: 1962 Apache
 

'60.

I have a '61.

Re: 1962 Apache
 

If that's a pic of the actual truck and the frame looks ok, go for it. Almost all of these trucks end up with rust holes in the lower rear of the front fenders, rocker panels, floor edges, and cab corners to some extent. The rockers in that pic are way better than you would typically find here in MO. Patch panels are readily available from lots of vendors. Most parts, both used and new, are very common for these trucks so you shouldn't have any trouble fixing it up.

You've also come to the right place for info, these guys know their stuff. Good luck!

Re: 1962 Apache
 

X2

It does look like a '60. I've owned a '61 and two '60s...

Re: 1962 Apache
 

Thank you folks - I MUCH appreciate the information. now have to consider finances and wife and will repost here if I decide to purchase - then the fun would begin.

Re: 1962 Apache
 

Actually - before i check it out in details - FRAME question. Are there areas that MUST be checked out on these things? for example - on Chevy Blazers the frame often cracks by /at the steering box if oversized tires are used as they put additional strain on that area.

Re: 1962 Apache
 

Cab mounts are not repopped.

Re: 1962 Apache
 

Not sure what that means exactly as I'm a bit of a noob at this truck thing. I'm assuming that it means the cab mounts haven't pulled off the frame ??

Re: 1962 Apache
 

Sorry I was vague, the cab mounts are not reproduced, so look those over real good.

Re: 1962 Apache
 

60...(x3)

If planning on lowering or doing any front end mods u will have to get a different front end due to the independent suspension. Parts are also a tad pricier then the others. It also has an “x frame” as oppose to a 63-66. 60-62 are weird years but sure are sweeet! Up to you on what u would like to do.

Re: 1962 Apache
 

That's a cool '60!

(1962's are the first C-10s... :ito:)