Vehicle Description
1959 Chevrolet Apache 3600 Series Pickup
The Chevrolet Task Force was Chevrolet's successor to the Advance
Design trucks. The Task Force Series ran from late 1955, (second
series), through 1959. At GMC locations, it was called the Blue
Chip Series. The 1955 second series offered standard options and
add-ons such as 12-volt electrical systems, the first V8, (265
cubic inches), and Fleetside beds in 1958. All light-duty trucks
are now called "Apache", medium-duty trucks called "Viking", and
heavy-duty trucks called "Spartan".
Adorning our halls here at Classic Auto Mall is this simply
beautiful former Texas '59 Apache 3600 Series pickup truck, in
nicely restored condition. Some upgrades have been performed along
the way including a 350ci V8, an overdrive transmission, upgraded
seating and a moremodern suspension. Not without a few faults and
flaws, but an overall meticulous job that retains the original look
with some niceties added in!
Exterior
Dark blue metallic covers this step side version of this medium
duty Apache. Dual chromed headlights, a fantastic new chrome grille
and bumper, and perfect badging are on top of the dark blue, which
needs mentioning is a good paint job. A few faults are noted here
and there in the form of some slight bubbling, chips, cracks and
light spray where the rockers tuck under the body. Otherwise we see
a mirror-like finish and one that you can use to brush your teeth
in. A wonderful wrap-around windshield and a roof integrated sun
visor are seen on the cab area. Right behind, lurking under the
black vinyl tonneau is the beautiful freshy redone oak lined bed
with its shiny metal straps keeping it all together. Our consigor
notes that the roof and the hood have also been resprayed, and the
gaps are well minded. The tailgate is flanked on the sides by small
round tail lights and a like new shiny chrome bumper is below.
15-inch polished American Racing Torque Thrust wheels are wrapped
by staggered width BF Goodrich T/A radials on all 4 corners.
Interior
Ribbed silver steel and a black panel with licking blue flames make
a background for shiny levers and cranks on the door panels. Gray
leather power actuated buckets with integral seat belts courtesy of
a 2004 GMC Envoy have been added and utilizing shades of gray for
lighter stitched inserts and age cracked bolsters. Up front, a
chrome bezel in an V shaped fan style custom dash houses all
digital Dakota dash instrumentation. A Kenwood AM/FM/CD stereo has
been mounted on the smooth silver dash face,which compliments the
body matching blue upper steel dash. A small black broadcloth
headliner is atop the compartment, and Berber carpet in black and
very clean condition floods the cabin floor. Resting between the
seats is a custom console with a large storage box and cup holders
and we note a Grant steering wheel has been installed atop the tilt
column.
Drivetrain
Lifting the massive hood allows us to view the 350ci V8 now sits
within the clean engine bay. This is topped by a new 4-barrel
Holley 600cfm double pumper carburetor and has a 700R4 4-speed
automatic transmission on back. Way back nestled under the bed, is
a Mopar 8 3/4" rear.
Undercarriage
All unrestored and wearing a mix of surface rust and gray paint
along with hints of the new wood which lines the bed. Headers and a
Flowmaster exhaust system are added, and a newer stainless gas tank
replaces the original. Leaf spring suspension on the rear as the
original had, and up front we note a Plymouth Volare front clip
with independent transverse torsion bars. For better stopping,
power front disc brakes have been added and rear drums are now
power assisted with a dual reservoir master cylinder. Our consignor
notes that the entire steering system has been gone through to
eliminate any slop.
Drive-Ability
A hop inside and we are immediately started, sounding smooth, and
ready to go onto gear. A move of the column shifter, and we are
cruising. A smooth ride, nice handling, and overall comfortable
interior. While this truck has neither heat or AC, we picked a
perfect windows down day for the test drive and all functions
inside are operational.
Driving this truck is a great experience as it will take you back
to a time where trucks were mainly used on the farm or strictly for
work. This example can certainly be used for work but would also be
very comfortable showing up at the country club, or a drive in
night, and it will be a head turner. Meticulous restoration with
great upgrades. All just right baby bear.
3E59K121798
3E-3600 Series
59-1959
K-Kansas City, MO Assy Plant
121798-Sequential Unit Number
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special
interest automobile showroom, featuring over 850 vehicles for sale
with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle
barn find collection is on display. This vehicle is located in our
showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just
1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The
website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888)
227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come
see the vehicle in person.