What to look for in purchasing a 1932-1940 Chevy truck?

[ahsom79vette]

Hello Everyone,
I've been a member for quite a while, and have owned many Chevrolets. However, I've never had anything older than my 1971 Chevrolet Longhorn c20.

Currently I am in the market for a 1932-1940 Chevrolet Pickup. I am looking for a truck to restore and mildly modify. I feel however I "lack" some knowledge of this generation of trucks.

If you guys could help me by giving me pointers in what to look for in purchasing a truck approaching 80 years old! Such as no "vin" # on these older trucks, what does this mean I should look for?

*Also, I know a guy selling his 1937 and it's in fairly good shape. It ran about 8 years ago. It's a 1.5 ton, with very minimal rust and complete.

What should I expect to pay for these trucks? I know online they seem fairly hard to come by in decent shape, and cleaned up, running & mildly restored seem to bring $12,000+. What would be a "good" deal for something not running and needing some TLC (not a pile)?

Thanks in advance!