You can’t recreate the quality and driving experience of a vintage truck, which is why they remain popular among car enthusiasts. These classic trucks have unique characteristics, and because of their age, specific needs. You don’t want to purchase one with a limited life span, and as with any investment, it should retain its value. Below are a few tips when shopping for an old truck.

A Guide to Purchasing a Vintage Truck

1. Stick With Well-Known Brands

Purchasing an exotic vintage truck may seem exciting, but when you must replace parts or schedule professional repairs, you’ll encounter problems. Rarity means that original parts aren’t widely available. You may have to order them from overseas, and they may be costly. Likewise, it is challenging to find experts with the training to work on them. Play it safe by purchasing popular brands such as Chevrolet, Ford, Dodge, and Jeep.

2. Check for Rust

Rust is one of the biggest issues aging trucks face. The quickest way to check is by tapping the fender. Rust particles will likely dislodge and fall to the ground. You can then check the engine and other components thoroughly for signs of rust.

Look at the car from all sides and be wary of new paint jobs. The seller may be trying to hide rust. Wrap a weak magnet in a soft cloth and touch it to parts of the sheetmetal body known to rust. If the magnet does not try to stick, there might be rust or body filler under the paint.

3. Learn the Value

No one wants to overpay, and worse, no one wants to pass on a fantastic deal. Tap into all the resources you can to determine the value of a prospective purchase. Look at the previous sale prices of similar models and check local auctions to get their general value range.

You can also explore value estimates online based on varying conditions of the truck, and if you plan on making enhancements, ask a mechanic how much repairs will cost. This ensures you get the best deal when buying.

4.Inspect the Engine

Unless you’re well-versed in cars, bring a professional with you to perform an on-site inspection. Vintage engines are different from modern ones, and you don’t want an existing problem to go unnoticed.

Schedule time with the seller for an inspection, and let the mechanic join you for the test drive. They’ll uncover any problems and help you make an informed purchase.

 

If you’re starting your search for vintage trucks, or are an enthusiast, check out Vintage Truck magazine. Based in Xenia, OH, this publication connects buyers with vintage and antique trucks, SUVs, and more. Learn more about a subscription on their website, or call (888) 760-8108 to speak with a representative.