The Chevrolet AK-Series Cab Over Engine truck is far from a common sight these days. Even at a classic car show, one would be hard-pressed to find one and it’s not hard to understand why. Most of these trucks lived hard lives as city busses, flatbeds, tankers and other work vehicles and were left to rot at the end of their service duration, making it hard to come by an example worth restoring.
For that reason, we think COE fans will definitely want to check out this beautifully restored 1946 Chevrolet COE flatbed currently for sale at Colorado dealership Worldwide Vintage Autos. It’s not clear when this truck was restored or what its backstory is, but it definitely looks like it was stripped down and overhauled at some point in time.
For starters, this truck has a number of parts that definitely did not come on the AK-Series COE. It is powered by a 500 cubic inch Cadillac V8 and a three-speed automatic transmission -a combination that will definitely move this big flatbed with more gusto than the original Chevy stove bolt inline-six. The truck also has power disc brakes and power steering, which are additions that will be appreciated by some but perhaps disliked by those looking for the true 1940s trucking experience.
The cab is definitely more luxurious than when the truck left the factory in 1945. Red and white two-tone vinyl upholstery and red carpet match with the bright red exterior paint, while air conditioning and a modern-day audio system keep occupants comfortable and entertained. There’s also a tilt steering column lifted from an old Cadillac for some added driver comfort.
The previous owner of the custom flatbed put just over 4,000 miles on it after the restoration was complete. Worldwide Vintage Autos is hoping to get $35,900 in exchange for the vintage Chevrolet work truck. Think it’s worth it? Let us know in the comments below.
Comments
Front wheel drive? Eldorado engine/trans and trailer axles at the rear? Not they way I would have done it, but looks like a lot of effort when into this thing.
Can buy one for $20-$25k
@ jackson Barret auctions with a different motor and tranny.
I don’t see anything stating front wheel drive or El Dorado heritage, this looks more like a transplant from a RWD Caddy, ad needs to expand description, nice toy, asking price VERY optimistic in my opinion
No, it isn’t stated. But I think I see Toronado/Eldorado offset steel wheels, no driveshaft, and grease caps on all rear wheels. There were some motorhomes built in the 70’s that used Toronado engine/transmission drivetrains and tandem trailer rear axles, kind of a cheap GMC Motorhome clone, builder might have used one of those as a base. Just a guess on my part.
Maybe complete GMC motorhome chassis underneath?