Posted by Cliff in WI on Saturday, March 08, 2003 at 8:26AM :
Ok - the truck has to look like it did when it left the factory - plus or minus any period options (factory or aftermarket). So your definition differs? OK
I think a lot is to be said for how you find the truck - if it lived 50 years with a wrecker configuration or 40 years with pumper - I think its cool to restore it that way. Mine spent 40+ years at the Northwestern University in Watertown Wisconsin. I would prefer it if had been a Shell Oil truck or John Deere - but the facts are the facts. Someone put a stronger bed on my truck - military style - guess that's not original - but guess what - I will probably use it. Guarantee that my unit will be unique. If we are having a contest on originality - I suggest we simply check pocket books. I know a guy who put 40K into a 1970s Bronco. I know that I can't compete with that. Maybe we would also have to compare spare time amounts - because that's what it takes too. I guess that what I am saying is this - if you want to restore the truck to it's original state - that's great. If not - that's great too - just don't butcher the thing. Save the original parts for a future owner - don't cut and hack. Keep pictures with manuals, etc.. But the way I see it - you don't have to break the bank to own a Power Wagon.
Some of us are more fortunate than others. Bank accounts - time - luck of finding near original units. We all like Power Wagons - and I am happy to a unit appreciated - in any fashion to any level of restoration. Like going to a tractor show. Not sure which I admire the most - the one that was plowing that morning and is muddy - or the one that is fully restored and clean.
Yes Gordon - you inspired me to spew. :)
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