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Originally Posted by hplacecf
I don't know much about trucks from back in the 1950s.... compared to the 1970s....
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The '57 is part of the "Task Force" era of Chevy trucks that ran from '55 - '59. In the 1950's trucks were only JUST beginning to be used as something other than a basic work horse. Sure, the Cameo truck came out in '55 but that was strictly cosmetic - Fiberglas sides and assorted pieces over the top of the stock stepside bed. '58-'59 saw the first Fleetside beds. All still had a straight front axle, ball bearing wheel bearings instead of tapered roller bearings and leaf springs for front suspension. They worked hard and they rode hard. No power steering, no power brakes, no disc brakes, no AC, no automatic until '57 then it was the legendary Hydramatic. Starting in '60 up to today Chevy trucks have independent front suspension (IFS). If you want any of that stuff, you have to add it yourself.
Quote:
Originally Posted by hplacecf
So, what should I be on the look out for (good and bad)
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These trucks never had galvanizing of any kind so they will have rust - ALL of them. If you don't find it, you missed it. If the seller says it's rust free, he's either clueless, lying or hiding it, OR (if he's someone like us) he repaired it and I'd ask for photos of the repairs. Otherwise don't believe it. Take a strong magnet with you! Yes, there PROBABLY is one or two without cancer somewhere but plan on repairing rust. Rear cab corners, door bottoms, the kick panels at the front of the cab floors on each side because the cowl vent drain holes would clog, leaves & dirt would build up = cancer. The "brows" above the headlights and around the roof gutters especially under the brim above the windshield.
These trucks came as short beds and long beds, the short ones are the most popular and will cost you more. They came with either a small or large, wrap around rear window. The "big window" is desirable. They came with and without Deluxe cab which means a thin strip of stainless steel that follows the window lines around the cab. It could be had whether small or big window.
There LOTS more info, but you'll just have to wade in on this sub forum and learn it as you go. It's ALL been discussed here, the search button is your friend.
Post a photo of your prospective truck and we'll help you all we can.
Best of luck, Dan