COE 1953 GMC coe

I have found a 1953 gmc coe, and was thinking about getting it. I am not a big fan of the grill on a gmc compared to that of a chevy. Is it an easy swap to switch out the grill between the 2? also will a regular chevy grill fit into a gmc coe? I have never messed with coe and am new to this. Also what is the going rate for a coe truck that is a project and needs work, cab corners etc? Also it has the full width fron window can a split window be put in?

Thanks

 

Sorry I dont have the answers but I say get it.
The cabs seem to me the same as regular pickup cabs so parts would be easy to get.
I hope that someone gets here with the answrs.
What are your plans>?

good luck

 

Id really like to build a hauler/ multipurpuse parts getter

 

Hey BillyBob...I can offer some answers. The grills are different between COE and regular trucks...they're wider. I personally like a GMC. If you have a full window it would seem its a '54/'55 cab unless thats something they did oddly with larger trucks as first releases of the cab. In northern Il. I've spent $600 to $1500 for a project COE. I've spent more for running driving trucks.

 

Sounds like a great project! I think if you change the grille you have to change the hood also. Not sure on the w/shield. I've seen cabs/trucks sell for $500-3k....depends on style and condition. Post pics if you can...
EDIT LUXLX answered the grille question....I'm a Ford guy anyway, LOL.

 

The whole front clip would have to be changed. The fenders, hood and grille are involved.
I would also think that it's a 54-55 1st series cab. I would check the ***le against the serial number to see what year it really is. There are serial number decoders posted on the internet.
Post up some pictures that would help.

 

As Donnda said, the whole front clip would have to be changed. I prefer the GMC grilles as they are actually mounted to the frame, & not to the front sheetmetal(fenders, etc.) as the Chevy COE's are. A much sturdier setup. GMC trucks were considered "Heavier Duty", back then, than Chevrolets. I've noticed while dismantling these GM COE's through the years, (i've owned close to thirty of them)that alot of the places Chevy used rivits, GMC's used bolts. I'm presently restoring a 1952 GMC 470 series, 3 1/2 ton COE, with full Factory Air Brakes.