1958' Chevrolet Apache

Chevrolet trucks like this 1958 Chevrolet Apache Fleetside were probably the first pickups that were actually designed to take into account that folks wanted their trucks to look good, as well as haul stuff and work hard. Showing off gorgeous Navy Blue paint and a supremely comfortable interior, this first-year Fleetside Apache never fails to elicit a smile from anyone who sees it. And with a powerful, 350 V8 crate engine under the hood, a freshly rebuilt automatic transmission, and an upgraded suspension that sets that low-slung stance, its no slouch in the performance department, either. Trucks were still practically tools in 1958, but that doesnt mean people werent using them for other things, and those were the folks Chevrolet was trying to attract. As a result, this handsome Apache (no longer called the 3100 starting this year) has plenty in common with the other vehicles in the lineup and today it stands tall as an icon of pure 1950s styling. Even up close, the straight bodywork on this giant long-bed stands up to scrutiny, suggesting that the work was very well done and its obvious this baby has been very well-kept ever since, with only 5992 miles on the build. Theres lots of detail, too, from the ridges on the hood to the long body spears that run the length of the super-cool Fleetside bed that give an impression of motion. Its one of the last of the Art Deco designed trucks, where style was just as important as substance, and highlighting this gorgeous truck with deep, dark Navy Blue paint was absolutely the right call. Purchased from a museum, this former dairy-truck was finished a few years back, and it still shows very well as a higher-end, top driver-quality rig, and although some minor imperfections can be seen upon closer examination, the out-of-this-world curb appeal of this Apache will certainly overshadow any nitpicking about some of the signs of use. White lettering outlines the Chevrolet script on the tailgate, and there was plenty of chrome left during the build, with the front grille, bumpers, hood and fender badging, and window surrounds polished up bright to contrast against the dark finish. Out back, the inside of the bed was purposely left with a bit of patina to retain some of the old farm truck vibe, although its still very nice with lightly stained wood planks held together with blue rub strips. The interior was restored to appear 100% back-to-stock, but with fresh materials and a couple of choice upgrades its far more stylish and comfortable than the original set-up. Thats a freshly upholstered bench that does a good impression of the original upholstery, with simple vinyl patterns that are continued on the arm rests set inside the steel door panels at the flanks. Plush black carpets and floor mats were added to help control noise and heat, and all the exposed metal inside the cab (including the dash) was painted to match the exterior perfectly. An aftermarket tilt steering column was installed to provide much needed extra room for the driver, although thankfully the original steering wheel was retained fully restored and set at the correct, upright angle at the head of the cockpit. The gauges are so extremely clean and clear that theyre likely factor reproductions, set inside a neat, chrome-outlined V-shaped pod, and an upgraded AM/FM/AUX/BT radio was stashed inside the cabin and sounds great through upgraded speakers. Chevys small-block V8 is a natural choice in the sporty Apache, with this one carrying a fresh 350 cubic inch V8 crate motor that makes for an entertaining drive. Dressed to look like an original block, the engine bay certainly looks the part, with Chevy Orange engine enamel on the valve covers and block, a black snorkeled air cleaner up top, and simple and efficient wiring and plumbing neatly organized throughout. Appearances can be deceiving, as the modern 5.7L V8 runs far better than anything from 1958, with loads of power and torque further enhanced by the Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor and Edelbrock intake up top. New motor mounts, a new fuel pump, a new radiator, and a new blower motor for the aftermarket heater all give this classic truck modern capabilities, preparing it for regular, everyday driving. Power heads aft through a freshly rebuilt TH350 3-speed automatic transmission and swapped-in S10 rear end filled with 3.08 gears, meaning this big Fleetside cruises down the highway at 70MPH with ease, and the stainless-steel dual exhaust system below sounds fantastic. An independent front suspension with tubular A-arms, power rack-and-pinion steering, and power front disc brakes makes this big truck easy to handle for anyone, while upgraded coils and shocks set that lowered stance, so hit the road with confidence. Color-matched steelies are adorned with period-correct Bowtie center caps, and they sit on 235/75/15 Coker whitewalls that finish off the look perfectly. A dialed-in Chevy truck with a ton of character and style, this Apache shows you that form doesnt necessarily have to follow function, and tools can still be beautiful. Call today!