The International Harvester A-Series debuted in 1957. The name represented the company’s 50th “anniversary” in the truck building business. They were wider than their predecessors and the front fenders were better integrated into the body than before. This ’58 example was exported to Peru at some point and more recently brought back to the U.S. by the seller. Treated to some recent mechanical work, this looks like a solid truck that could be enjoyed as is. Located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, this old workhorse is available here on Barn Finds Classifieds for $8,799.
These trucks were offered as A-100 to A-180 models, identified by gross vehicle weight (GVW) ratings that ranged from 4,200 up to 33,000 lbs. The half-ton editions, like the seller’s pickup, were designated A-110 and were powered by a 240 cubic inch OHV inline-6 engine and 4-speed manual. This appears to be the set-up in this truck (and numbers matching) with the mileage reported at 67,000, but the gauges apparently are in kilometers from the truck’s days overseas.
This pickup is nicknamed “Tow Mater” (remember the movie, Cars?) and has been spiffed up to the tune of $3,000 in receipts. That work included a new 12-volt electrical system; servicing the fuel system, cooling system, and brakes; and replacing the bail joints, bearings, exhaust system, and clutch along with new tires. So, it’s set to cruise around town and would likely be the only one you’ll find.
Rust is present in this old gal but it’s not serious. Corrosion lies in the cab corners, tailgate, and lower front fenders, but the undercarriage is solid. This pickup served in the mining industry in Peru and has some dents and dings in the bed and tailgate, where plenty of surface rust also lives. Spare components and repair manuals will come with the truck, so if it needs anything, maybe you won’t have to go looking very far.
I remember when the paint on these trucks was still wet. Our local dealer put lots of these on the road and they were well accepted. My dad didn’t like them as much as he liked the L thru S models that preceded it. He said they didn’t handle nearly as well. At any rate a truck like this would be welcome at my place. First thing I would do is pitch the carburetor and air cleaner and replace them with OEM units. And I would drive and fix from there.
I’d pitch everything under the carburetor too. And those tail lights. Leave the body and paint alone. And don’t forget to add “Clown Wheels”, LOL!
This same truck was posted here over a year ago ; at that time they were asking over 17G for it
My favorite International pickup. I wish I’d have bought one years ago. Before the movie!
These are tough old trucks.
It is what it is; a humble old work truck that has brought back from the dead. The sellers claim to keeping with originality is contrary to it’s presentation; a number of original items are missing or do not work although practically upgraded. It is neither rare to find International Harvester equipment globally nor find that the reliably efficient powerplants outlast the vessel to which they were originally assigned. That being said, I’d love to have this truck (and get to see beautiful Eastern Tennessee foliage in the fall), but wouldn’t entertain that notion at anywhere near the advertised price. I sincerely wish good luck to the seller on his sale.