Introducing the Silva Sportswear shop truck We thought a mildly customized shop truck would be appropriate. Utility aside, It would also provide aesthetic value as an advertising platform, and hey who doesnt like old trucks? Historical precedence abounds. The likes of Winfield, Barris and Alexander Bros are but a few, who have built outstanding examples. Specifically ours will be a very mild custom, an early to mid 1950s vibe will dictate its direction. We chose a 1940 Ford for this project. Our example hails from the pacific northwest and credit goes to Cory Swenson for initially saving it from a certain death. Progress is underway and We'll post updates on the HAMB as well as here on our blog.
Actually Cory nailed it...and that's what led us to this project in the first place. We're in the process of giving it a facelift and freshening some things.
very nice as is, but I still vote for finished paint, especially if for advertising a shop. Not that you are asking for votes though of course.
Again I want to give Cory credit for initially saving this truck. He did a great job, respecting its early ford roots and not goofing it up. Our vision is to take it further along...finished bodywork, paint, interior etc. The truck is currently blown apart and has been stripped to bare metal. See pics below...
Do you regret stripping it, and not just driving it? I love the first shots of it! That truck will be amazing when it's done.
That would have been the easier route... I knew what I was getting into when I bought it and dont regret the decision. I'm pretty excited about the project.
Well done. I am building a '55 F 100 Panel with a Merc Flathead. Have ran into some nay-sayers on a Flated over a Y Block or FE. Thanks for giving me some hope ! Awesome truck...
thank u so much for striping it. It is gonna be awesome. So sick of the whole leave it like u found it.
I agree with you! The only reason I like the drive it like you found it is because that's all my time, money, and talent will allow!
That is one cool truck Kevin an will be a killer rollin billboard for a great product you guys already produce love your jackets an chain stiching.
Ok...So I last left you with a pathetic looking bare cab. Prior to removal the cab was braced keeping it intact while it was off the ch***is. When it returned I shot what was left with "Rust Encapsulator" and carefully drilled out the spot welds and removed the seat riser. I then reinstalled the cab to the ch***is and located and secured all the body mounts. I then trial fit the doors to be certain everything was still in the ballpark. My next move is to build some structure. I started with the back panel Then on to the left and right cab corners. With the back of the cab taking shape, I moved inside and started work on the rear floor section. Cut and trial fit. See ya next time...
Looking good Kevin. I am glad to see this thing will have some good paint on it. I think I may have a good header if you need one. This pickup is going through quiet an adventure. These pics were taken after I had already done a little work to it. When I got it, there was no front axle and the frame was stuck in the ground. It was buried up to the roof in thorn bushes. Keep us posted, and let me know if you need any parts that would be the same as 46-47.
Progress update... In this photo I've made some reference marks for my cowl panel and cut out the cancerous original. Then carefully removed the lower A-pillar mount. Toeboard and aforementioned panels removed. Rt. side toeboard fitted and prepped for welding. Rt. side Rocker panel fitted and tacked in place.
Looks great Kevin! Looks so weird to see my Brother's truck all bare metal! He's right, it is really bad when he first got it. I remember thinking it was junk and would never amount to anything
Nice work so far. I'll be watching your build for when I finally get off my **** and get going on mine.
The Jalopy Journal
