When we consider vehicles that consistently perform well in the classic market, muscle and pony cars are the first that spring to mind. However, older pickups continue to hold their own, and many enthusiasts find them satisfying project candidates. That could prove the case with this 1959 Chevrolet Apache 3100. It has generated plenty of interest since its owner listed it here on eBay in Califon, New Jersey. The action has pushed the bidding to $9,100, although that figure falls short of the reserve.
The seller is this Apache’s second owner, but it isn’t clear when it came into their care. Its Cardinal Red paint is now pretty faded, but it shows loads of character for those considering a preservation pathway. They will have rust to tackle, which has impacted the areas we have grown to know and love with older Pickups. These include the lower fenders, the headlight “eyebrows,” and the cab steps. The cowl and floors look clean, but we don’t get a clear shot of the lower cab corners. The original bed timber is rotten, but replacing this should prove easy and inexpensive. The trim is present and restorable, while the glass looks excellent for a vehicle of this vintage.
Although Chevrolet offered buyers the option of ordering their new ’59 Apache with a 283ci V8 under the hood, most buyers elected to stick with the tried-and-true 235ci “Thriftmaster” six. Their faith seems justified considering it produced a healthy 145hp and 217 ft/lbs of torque. That’s what we find occupying this classic’s engine bay, with the power feeding to the back wheels via a three-speed manual transmission. The seller holds a significant collection of invoices confirming the mechanical TLC they have lavished on their beloved Pickup. The brakes received a new dual master cylinder, power booster, a complete set of lines, and other components to provide excellent stopping power. There is a new fuel tank, new fuel lines, new tires, and an alternator. They combed the electrical system to ensure everything works as it should and completed their work by replacing the oil pan and valve cover gaskets. There may be a few minor tasks for the buyer to consider, but none prevent this classic from running and driving exceptionally well. The mechanical health means the buyer can immediately enjoy this gem while considering how to tackle their build.
One of the most satisfying aspects of restoring an older Pickup is returning the interior to its former glory. It is a task that many owners will tackle because the work tends to be pretty straightforward. It requires no special skills beyond patience and the ability to effectively prepare surfaces and wield a spray gun. The “patience” side of the equation allows an owner to dismantle the interior, which generally isn’t difficult. With the painted surfaces prepared and refreshed, bolting everything back into place can leave an interior looking as-new. The buyer faces that task, but plenty of positive attributes are worth considering. The interior is complete, including the factory radio blanking plate. The seller added a new seat and ensured the heater pumps out warm air. This interior could look stunning if the buyer applies fresh paint in the appropriate spots and adds a rubber mat. Even if they elect to leave the exterior essentially untouched, a sparkling interior will provide an excellent contrast that would set tongues wagging.
The next owner of this 1959 Chevrolet Apache has decisions to make, but the solid nature of this classic means they can take the time to consider their options before committing time and money to their build. It would undoubtedly look stunning if returned to its former glory, but addressing its rust issues while preserving its survivor status is one many might consider. The auction action indicates its desirability and potential, with forty-five bids submitted with plenty of time remaining on the listing. It would be interesting to confirm what path the next owner will follow, but whatever their choice, they will slip behind the wheel of a Pickup that should provide many years of classic motoring pleasure.
Apache
The owner had all that maintenance work done for him. That gets expensive fast. The $9100 bid makes me feel good about my ’58.
If you can’t do the most of the work yourself you have no business buying something like this as the work recites clearly show unless you have a lot of disposable cash.
I use to do all my maintenance until arthritis took over. For about three years I couldn’t hold a wrench. Today I change the starter on my tractor. First mechanical thing I have done in five years. At some point in your life you have to put down the wrenches.
Too much rust on this one. Need to consider frame off restoration to fix all the rust issues. From what I can see in the provided photo’s all 4 corners of this one are rusted out.
Hmmm… pretty sure the US had more than 9 states in 1959.
Maybe to some, but they’ll be in the cold, cold ground before they recognize Missorah,,,
That Simpsons reference is older than some of the cars featured on this site!
If it was a 55-57 in that condition, I’d be going nuts. Needs steps, fender rust fixed plus I’d prefer a stepside. The color and interior is great.
I understand I was a diesel mechanic for 40 years did a lot of road work in the cold my hands are a mess with arthritis in constant pain but I still love working on old stuff I’m almost done doing a 58 Apache for wife and have a 67 chevelle ss project coming. Sorry that your hands are that bad B
Love that tailgate!