Well I feel like I have a million threads, so here’s a million and one. We are waiting on Summit Auto Transport to drop off our new to us 1976 Colorado plow 40 that we snagged from Classic Cruisers. Both Aaron from Summit and Brandon from Classic are a joy to work with.
The 40 to be referred to as “The Plow” from here forth is a tad crusty, but amazingly the frame is a beaut especially given the body. I weld as a hobby so I should be able to muddle my way through it. My loving wife says that’s best as I only enjoy projects or I get bored. She’s not wrong. My son is especially excited and I’m looking forward to wrenching with both him and my daughter.
The Plow is pretty much complete and unmolested since she had a purpose and she did it well. I first plan to make her topless as why else would you drive a 40 and then put my split rims I kept off our old Troopy on her. Yes they are “dangerous”...that’s a matter of opinion so no need to tell me.
She’ll be a slow project and I don’t currently plan to go the purist route. I’m considering a 350 and h55 swap as I’d like some power. Really I’d prefer a Toyota diesel as I miss the sound and smell from our old Troopy, but initial cost and general parts sourcing makes me think that’s not the route I’ll go.
I’m also considering putting my favorite era 40 parts on her, split hood, round front blinkers, etc. I know, I should be flogged for even thinking any of this. However she’s mine and I’m building her for us and I only plan to live once...not counting eternity, but I don’t think I can take the 40 with me.
Here are some pics I was sent and I’ll post up more when she shows up to her new home! For those wondering, I snagged for $6,500 running and driving.
EDIT: Pretty cool, I just learned the Cruiser was owned by the PO for 30yrs. Bought it in 91 I think according to the papers I found in the glove box.
The 40 to be referred to as “The Plow” from here forth is a tad crusty, but amazingly the frame is a beaut especially given the body. I weld as a hobby so I should be able to muddle my way through it. My loving wife says that’s best as I only enjoy projects or I get bored. She’s not wrong. My son is especially excited and I’m looking forward to wrenching with both him and my daughter.
The Plow is pretty much complete and unmolested since she had a purpose and she did it well. I first plan to make her topless as why else would you drive a 40 and then put my split rims I kept off our old Troopy on her. Yes they are “dangerous”...that’s a matter of opinion so no need to tell me.
She’ll be a slow project and I don’t currently plan to go the purist route. I’m considering a 350 and h55 swap as I’d like some power. Really I’d prefer a Toyota diesel as I miss the sound and smell from our old Troopy, but initial cost and general parts sourcing makes me think that’s not the route I’ll go.
I’m also considering putting my favorite era 40 parts on her, split hood, round front blinkers, etc. I know, I should be flogged for even thinking any of this. However she’s mine and I’m building her for us and I only plan to live once...not counting eternity, but I don’t think I can take the 40 with me.
Here are some pics I was sent and I’ll post up more when she shows up to her new home! For those wondering, I snagged for $6,500 running and driving.
EDIT: Pretty cool, I just learned the Cruiser was owned by the PO for 30yrs. Bought it in 91 I think according to the papers I found in the glove box.
Last edited: