Disclosure: This site may receive compensation when you click on some links and make purchases.

Modern Power, Classic Looks: 1949 Chevy COE

'49 COE Chevy

A few days ago, we featured a similar GMC COE, but sadly this one lacks the awesome Bookmobile body. This one is a 1949 Chevrolet cab, but it’s actually been placed on a 1991 GMC truck chassis. This mix of old and new can be found here on craigslist in St. Louis, Missouri with a $12K asking price.

'49 COE Chevy right side

We don’t know what model 1991 GMC truck was used to install the cab on. The ’91 truck’s drive-train was also used, so that should ensure this truck is reliable and more powerful. The details on the engine and transmission are not included with the ad, so you will want to contact the seller for more information.

'49 COE Chevy rear

This dually is a flatbed. How about adding some ramps? We don’t know the length of the bed, but hopefully it’s long enough to fit a car on. Do you think it’s long enough to fit a small or micro car on there? We do know that mopeds, vespas, motorbikes and trikes will if you can ramp them up or add a small lift or crane to lift them. Of course, you could get rid of the flatbed and turn this into a Bookmobile. So many possibilities!

'49 COE Chevy int.

The owner says the rig runs, but needs to be finished. No trades, cash only for this one. What a cool rig to have and cruise to shows, car (trucks?) and coffee and checking out what is in the barn. We know there are many of you that would like to have a rig like this. We also know COE cabs can cost thousands of dollars without a chassis, engine, etc. You can always make an offer and see what the owner has to say. If you pick this one up and trick it out, please let us know!

Motor-on,
Robert

Comments

  1. Avatar Marty Member

    The Bookmobile is tempting, but I think I’d rather have this one in rollback configuration. This is the first one of these I’ve ever noticed that had corner windows like the regular size trucks. Awesome.

    Like 0
    • HoA Howard A Member

      Hi Marty, I agree, this makes much more sense than the “bookmobile”, but for other reasons. If one was to use a truck like this for everyday, this is the way to go. Those windows were an option on the “Advanced Design” Chevy trucks, and Dodge had a similar option with their “Pilot House” cab. I think you may be thinking of “The Count’s” truck, on counting cars.( cool truck, cool guy) https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/81/44/34/814434dc96cfab68ef1b1169ae2035e9.jpg

      Like 0
  2. Avatar 1969Deuce

    I don’t know enough about the market to comment on price, but the idea is very cool and I like it.

    Like 0
  3. Avatar jimbosidecar

    I think the price is not bad. I would love to finish this off with a ramp bed for hauling cars and motorcycles. I wish I knew if its a diesel or gas powered though

    Like 0
  4. Avatar Bobsmyuncle

    I love COEs and this one is more practical than the bookmobile.

    I’d love something like this but on a half or one ton chassis and a regular box.

    Very cool find!

    Like 0
  5. Avatar Marty Member

    Howard,
    The link you supplied shows one of the nicest looking COE trucks I’ve ever seen. It appears to be a ramp truck rather than a rollback, but done either way would be a good practical, modern use of a vintage COE truck.

    Like 0
  6. Avatar Mark S

    This is the way to go modern chassie looks well done so far. i would loose the deck move the rear wheels forward, and install a 1 ton truck box with 5th wheel attachment in the box. Than you could haul a low rider car hauler or a RV trailer or a combinations of both. With this setup there would way more options.

    Like 0
  7. Avatar David

    I bought it in april 2016. less than the asking price. I am working on the body now,ready to finish and paint. Going with the original color,Seacrest green. will put an aluminum 8 ft. bed on it with a gooseneck hitch and pull my other toys with it on a 24ft. trailer.

    Like 0
    • Avatar Jamie Palmer Staff

      David, thanks for the update and please post some pictures of your progress!

      Like 0

Leave a Reply to 1969Deuce Cancel reply

RULES: No profanity, politics, or personal attacks.

Become a member to add images to your comments.

*

Get new comment updates via email. Or subscribe without commenting.