This post-war 1-ton Studebaker truck was restored from the ground up in 2008. The truck had been in the family since 1951 and the descendants of that owner commissioned the restoration. The odometer was reset at that time and the truck was rarely driven for many years until I purchased it in 2025. I received the truck with 11 miles on the odometer and have since added around 80 miles.
The 1-ton versions of this truck received a four-speed non-synchronized transmission with lower gear ratios that the 1/2 ton M5. It’s a challenge and a joy to drive, though I never go over 45-50 mph due to the gearing. The aftermarket signals work well. Cold starts take a bit of coaxing, but it always starts and runs great! I get plenty of thumbs up and comments every time I’m out and about in this truck.
Spark plugs were replaced and carburetor was rebuilt in 2025 along with an oil and filter change.
The restoration is thorough and well done. It shows like new, though there are some blemishes and omissions:
1) The front rechromed bumper shows some rust pimples
2) Driver sun visor is missing
3) I got the wiper motors working, but wiper arms and blades are missing
4) There is a slight oil leak from the main seal (maybe 1-3cc’s per month)
5) Fuel gauge doesn’t work
6) Stock temperature gauge doesn’t work
7) Heater fan is not wired in (though I have the parts to do so)
8) During transport to me from Wisconsin, cab roof was damaged (paint scraped to metal 1/4” x 2”)
The price is less than it would cost for the restoration these days, but I’ve tried to price it right to go to someone who will enjoy the truck more frequently than I’ve found time to do so. Shoot me a message and we’ll set up a time for you to come check it out and take a ride!
