1950 International Harvester L-110 Series 1/2 ton pickup truck. It gets a lot of attention everywhere it goes, people love the patina and overall look. This was my daily driver for a few years when I lived in San Francisco, and we took it on many road trips. It has never let me down, and I’ve always kept up on routine maintenance.
A local blogger posted about it here: http://californiastreets.blogspot.com/2013/03/san-francisco-street-sighting-1951.html
This truck was mechanically restored by my brother in 2011. We kept it true to original as possible. We couldn’t stand to paint over the original finish with the original owner’s logos and business info- he had an OK Tire shop. A few of my family’s IH trucks were parted out and combined to complete this one. It was rebuilt to be used and driven, keeping to its workhorse past.
When it was finished, a friend and I drove it to California from Nebraska, keeping to old highways and visiting national parks. We saw snow in Colorado, high winds and rain in Utah, and extreme heat through the Mojave National Preserve. Since then, it has taken us all over CA, even up/down a 26% grade through the Senora Pass. It is a hell of a lot of fun.
Powering this beast is a 220 cubic inch inline six-cylinder motor teamed up to a 4-speed transmission from my dad’s ’56 R120. Only 1st gear requires a double-clutch (and I never really use 1st anyways). Consistent 14 mpg, with a bigger gas tank from my uncle’s slightly newer L. If you’re brave enough, it will hit 70/75 mph.
Mileage before 2011 is unknown. Odometer shows 14,536 since the rebuild.
Original steering, rare hidden door hinges (this is the only IH truck I’ve ever seen with hidden hinges), rare shortbed with visor (most are long beds). Split rear window and a double hinged piano style opening hood- release both levers and the entire hood lifts off. Center pop-up cowl scoop w/ lever & vent under the dash. Even has the optional door locks!
In 2011: engine/transmission overhaul, all mechanical parts overhauled, all new hoses & gaskets, KN air filter, new side and rear windows, weatherstripping, windshield was polished, upgraded to a 12-volt electronic system- new alternator and wiring harness, new electric cooling fan on the radiator, motorized wipers that work great, heater/defroster, Kenwood stereo w/phone input & 6x9 speakers, upholstery (no headliner), new gauges, we added power brakes (original drums plus a new mastercylinder), diamond plate toolbox, shoulder belts, blinkers/headslights, 5x KUMHO tires and new rims.
Steering gear is a bit worn, it catches when you turn past that spot. I have another steering column/gear that will be sold with the trucks, along with a few misc wiper parts off another model. Needs a new battery, but otherwise starts great. No leaks, but will spill oil if you overfill. Small hole in the roof from a previous exterior light. No longer has the spot light off the driver’s door- and the old hole has been filled.
