Projects Value in a 1959 Chevy Apache Flatbed?

Is there value in flatbeds? Found a '59 Chevy Apache Flatbed w/6cyl running in good shape and body looks solid but not sure what kind of market there is for these out there. Ideas?

 

I got a 57 chevy single wheel one ton flatbed truck last summer, with a V8, custom trim cab (missing most of the trim), for $500. Needed a lot of work, I ditched the flatbed for a long Fleetside box, cut the frame to 8', added 80s 8 lug rear and springs, and got it running/driving. I also started fixing up the cab, I got the driver door working well, got the wiring fixed, etc. I'm also working on a slide in 11' Avion camper to go in the bed. Yeah, there's a market for trucks like that, but it's a small market.

 

Like squirrel said...ditch the flatbed and get a pickup bed. '59 isn't one of the most popular years, but still a nice truck. If it can be had cheap....I'd say get it.

 

also what model is it? The number on the fender, (also on the VIN as a number/letter) will tell you. 31 is short half ton, 32 is long bed half ton, 36 is 3/4 ton, 38 one ton, 40 is 1-1/2 ton, etc. Seems the smaller trucks are easier to sell

 

Cabs are the same for '55-'59. Doors always rust out at the bottoms, so if that one has good doors, there you go. You said six cylinder. If its a 3/4 ton or 1 ton, its probably a 261. 261's in good shape go for decent money as well. That's the first thing I look for when I see bigger trucks in the junkyards.

 

Thanks guys, says model 32.

 

oh, it's a half ton (***uming the numbers are original, does it have 6 lug wheels?). That helps, but being a long wheelbase is not good for resale value to hot rodders.

 

That's true about the LWB trucks not being worth much to hot rodders, but if you're looking for a cool old truck to make Home Depot runs and hitting the wrecking yards, they work awesome. I'm keeping my eye out for a dependable old 60-66 Chevy truck for just that purpose. I had one, and in a moment of stupidity, sold it and regretted it ever since.

 

Man I have had more than my share of those "moments"

 

I still have my 59 32 series long bed truck...I've held onto it for 34 years now. It had a flatbed on it for a while, too.