Hi Folks, A few days ago I acquired this thing... It may not be much to look at right now, but it has the specs and capacity for the makings of a pretty decent car hauler. Here's the factory sheets... Mine is one of the larger models, an AMC-164 ("A" series truck, "M" for Metro body, C for "cargo" I think). I'm not sure of the weight (tons) designation of the 164 model, but the biggest of these trucks had a max GVWR of 22,000 which even if its a little less should give this thing a pretty decent hauling capacity. Here's the best part! The transmissions in these trucks had PTO ports and this one was used. Previous to me buying it, it was used as a garbage truck with a hydraulic compactor on the back. Either way, this thing makes a perfect candidate to have a tilt-back flatbed installed. What do you think so far?
I actually dig the slant of the nose and the curvature of the gl***, especially on top with the brow. I'd give it alittle more fender and slam it! Looks kool.
What year is it? Does it have the 6 cylinder inline engine? I really think this is a unique and neat unit. -Donn-
There is one of these sitting about 30 miles from me.......always thought it was cool. Looks like a fun build!
Love the profile of your binder, that is going to be a cool build for sure. Can't wait to see your plan.
Hey scalhotrod; I think you've got an excellent idea. I'm currently looking for a decent 50s step van and considering the same thing. I have 2 new stripped motorhome ch***is; a 2007 and a 2011 22,000 GVW models with the V-10 and 5-speed auto trans. Nothing has ever been on these ch***is; 0 miles. Just waiting for the right body donor. - - If you will post a picture looking at your truck straight on from the side, I will take a stab at photoshopping what the end result might look like. - - GREAT IDEA, keep us posted. I'm subscribed.
Hey Folks, Thanks for all of the interest and support! LUX, its actually all flat gl***. That's one of the more convenient things about Metros. It already has removable fibergl*** fender flares, widening them wouldn't be too challenging, interesting idea. But I'll probably leave it stock height, its easier to calculate loads and the needs of the tilt-back bed. Don't get me wrong, I'm usually "down in the weeds" low kind of rodder, but I want to make this truck as practical as I can. Don, it's registered as a 1962, but that doesn't mean it was built in '62. Just calling it an AM series is probably accurate enough. And yes its got a 240 inch Black Diamond straight six, its rated at 140HP and 223 lbs of torque. One of the neat things about the engine is that it came stock with a Holley single barrel carb. On one of the International Harvester dedicated bulletin boards, one of the members developed a turbo-charger kit for these engines and they are for sale for $1,800 complete. How cool would THAT be plus probably just a good idea for overall use and drivability! Chevy, mostly its dirty and its been used as a true work truck for a few decades, but its been taken care of and seemingly not abused. There is a little bit of bent metal here and there, but no body rot that I've found and its still pretty solid. There isn't much on it that a good cleaning and the application of lubrication won't fix. v8, thanks for the offer, that sounds like a cool plan. Once I get it home I'll post a bunch more pics. I'm trying to find a better deal on its transport than the $800 or so that I'm being quoted by tow companies near the truck.
What do you think? Just taking a stab at it... ... and (depending on your state) if you you keep it licensed as an antique and don't have to keep the BRIGHT DOT reflector markings, Voi-la! This looks less modern.
Wow, very cool V8! Shorten up the cab a bit and it'll be just about right... And yes, it will be registered as a vintage truck with 1963 commercial plates if I can find a decent set.
I think your truck will be a cool one of a kind car hauler......I would leave the cab stock length though. That is what makes it so cool!
Hey folks, I found a transporter finally! with any luck it arrives this week, woohoo! More pics to come! Chris
This old Metro sits about 30 miles from me.....has been there as long as I can remember. Last time I drove by the grille cover was ripped off. I think the s****pers/crackheads stole the radiator out of it. No one lives there where it sits....
It's home!! I'm about to go visit it where I have it stored. As soon as the weather is nicer, copious pics to follow!!
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