Buying a '66 Small Window

[BAT]

Until recently I have been a 67 - 72 guy but I have recently gotten the urge to delve in to the previous generation. I just came across a "barn find" 66, all original, solid floors minimal rust, still has factory cover plate over radio opening, motor turns over, just an all around straight truck and at a price you would not believe if I told you. My question is that it has a small window, does that make it any more or less desirable? I have seen where several have changed over from small to large but personally I think the small window is somewhat unique.

Any thoughts on small windows? Also what is the range value wise on it?

[Jeff La]

While all the rage seems to be the big window, I too am a small window fan. Production of big windows was supposed to be less than small, yet everyone seems to be able to find all they need to convert them.

[cortcomp]

I wouldn't say it's unique, but is different. if i didn't have the roof off and wasn't doing a total resto on the interior, i wouldn't have converted mine to a BBW. Honestly, it makes it feel more vintage or classic when you're driving a SBW. I just happened to find a panel for sale when i was in that stage of the project. I wouldn't have the skill or desire to do it on a finished truck like some guys do.

[oem4me]

The big window was an option. In general, the biggest factors playing a part in determining any truck's value would be condition and options. Obviously, better condition and more options means more money. The big glass alone wouldn't make a huge difference in value. So, what did the truck come with? V-8, Auto, A/C, PS, PB,? .. any and all add value. Just guessing here, but the intact radio delete plate tells me it probably did not come with tons of goodies.
That leaves condition as the main basis for value. To figure that we need more info. Oh, and pictures. Lots of pictures!
Good luck!

[1966FLEETSIDE]

batt i had the same intentions with my sbw,after seeing a few sbw fixed up i gave it some thought,and decided to keep my sbw,by the way it wasnt the money issue,it was simply the preference.good luck

[joedoh]

Originally Posted by BAT

My question is that it has a small window, does that make it any more or less desirable?

a nice small window truck is worth more than a wrecked big window truck. apples to apples though, a big window truck is worth more than a small window truck in the exact same condition. As said, the big window was the option.

there are enough of both around, pick what you like. I didnt want to feel claustrophobic, so I bought a big window.

[contagious102]

Had to have the small window ,or would not have bought mine.Just like the way they look.!!! Harder to see out of , backing up can be fun.!!!!!!!!

[chevyrestoguy]

I like the look of both the big and small window. I actually prefer driving the small windows because the back of your neck doesn't get cooked from the sun, and I like the cozy feel of a small window when you're inside. On the flip side, you have to really rely on your mirrors in a small window, and making a lane change requires a little bit more attention.

[ChrisDollins]

I love my small window! But I would buy either, wouldn't pay more or less for either one.

Chris
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[markeb01]

I'm another small window guy. I would never buy a big window truck regardless of price or condition, and not because I don’t favor the appearance. I drove an 83 for several years with the big window and I hated getting cooked. Ultimately I covered the entire rear window with black limousine film and using my 1960 small back window as a template, cut an identical size hole in the film to see out of. It was much more comfortable not getting roasted during the evening commute.

[kieth]

Small window for me, its hot in Oklahoma, and I do not want to end up with a redder neck than when I started. ha ha Kieth

[TopFuel1966]

I live in southern Cal where it's 90 today. Haven't ever gotten a sunburnt neck yet.

[ChuckW]

Mine's a small window.. I prefer the look of the sw personally... Never cared for the fishbowl feeling of the large window.... It's all about personal preference!

[LostMy65]

It really is about personal preference.
I think the fleetsides look more modern with a big back window.
I feel the stepsides look odd with a big back window.
Either way, they all are cool classic trucks.
I think there is a thread of three to four pages of these same exact 'bbw vs small window' posts.
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[thunder71]

Really love of vintage look of the SBW...you get used to it
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[Ta2Don]

Had a BBW back in the mid 80's, now have a SBW, and like most of the above comments, personal preference is the main object in play... Have fun whichever route you decide upon!!!

[MikeS.]

BBW for me.
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[kieth]

Originally Posted by TopFuel1966

I live in southern Cal where it's 90 today. Haven't ever gotten a sunburnt neck yet.

its a dry heat !