This 1959 Chevy Apache presents more than a few mysteries, yet also stands as an example of one of GM’s most timeless and beautiful designs. Located in Summerville, South Carolina, and up for auction here on eBay, the bid currently rests at $13,200. With three days remaining and the reserve unmet, there’s still some time to see if there’s space in your garage for this classic truck.
These trucks are the beneficiaries of a large community of enthusiasts, and parts– including new sheet metal– are in plentiful supply. This example has profited from that availability: there is new steel in many areas that are prone to rust. Speaking of rust, the bed seems to have been lined, and the bottom has likely been replaced. The truck comes with either the 235 or the 261 cubic inch inline six– it’s hard to tell from photos alone, but the Jobmaster offers only 8 hp more than the base 235’s 140, regardless. The most curious thing about the engine is the compressor, which on a Viking would indicate air brakes. These were an option on Apaches, but a rare one. The transmission is a 3-speed manual with column-mounted shift. Given the amount of oil surrounding the transmission, however, a closer inspection is called for; could be that it was just overfilled, but better safe than sorry.
The interior looks clean and tidy, with leather buckets and new gauges, although the floor covering could use some attention. The modern steering wheel seems out of place in this truck, though, and while its smaller diameter might make it easier to fit into the seat, once there the driver will notice the lack of leverage offered by the original. The paint is presentable. The Task Force series of trucks look great in two-tone paint and white with blue is a great choice; it’s a shame the doors don’t match the blue on the body.
All together, this truck looks like a serviceable example ready for immediate use. As the seller notes, the work that has been done so far has not brought the truck to concourse levels of perfection, but the next owner could certainly take the next step in that direction. On the other hand, a truck is meant to work for a living, and this one should still have plenty of life left in it. Whether it’s hauling furniture back home, or two-by-fours to the job site, or a canoe down to the river, a good truck gets the job done– same as it did back in ’59.
I’m pretty sure the compressor is for an A/C conversion, not air brakes on a half-ton! There’s an accumulator on the inner fender.
I think it’s a 235, and has updated electronic ignition dist., the a/c compressor long been unoperable, with no inside unit. Quick correction, the Viking was the middle class truck, like stake beds and such, air brakes were a ways off in the late 50’s, so they probably had vacuum over hydraulic. The Spartan was their biggest, used in tractor trailer applications. Andy makes a great point about the steering wheel. Ever wonder why semi trucks had those big steering wheels? It was for leverage. Power steering was also a rare option, and a big steering wheel was needed, especially when not moving. This might not be too bad, but as stated, that and the aftermarket gauges loses some of the charm. The seats are a welcome addition, however. The oil is probably from the rear main seal, no biggie, really, might make the clutch chatter, but keeps everything nice and oiled. A crime today. It’s a great find in that, practically all of these were turned into some resto-mod, and if 5 figures is what it takes to have this, so be it. Just don’t muck it up with clown wheels,,,
The Apaches may be my all-time favorite pickup design.
How much for the truck?
Read and you shall discover…