1939 Plymouth Pickup

Description

Yep, you're seeing that correctly, this is indeed a Plymouth pickup truck. In the early days of motoring, almost every automaker offered some kind of commercial vehicle, and this handsome 1939 Plymouth pickup is not only an unusual find, but also nicely updated with V8 power and modern suspension, all without losing its old-fashioned look.

Old pickups always look best in basic Hunter Green, so when this one was going together, that's what they used. They didn't try for a two-tone look, because by 1939, nobody was doing black fenders anymore, and the rounded curves of this neat little pickup show quite well with the bright color. Fit and finish is very good, and you know that it's original steel because reproduction parts for this particular truck are practically non-existent. There wasn't much chrome or brightwork on the truck when it was first built, and things like the grille, bumper, and even the windshield frame are all painted to match the body and the monochromatic look suits this Plymouth just fine. A few bright pieces remain, including the headlight rings, hood ornament, door handles, and the cool Plymouth script on the grille. A custom rear roll pan with built-in LED taillights gives it a clean look, and the bed is beautifully finished with an oak floor, custom stake sides, and a built-in "trunk" that houses the gas tank.

Big improvements are found inside, where the original vinyl bench has been replaced by comfortable gray fabric that was stitched in a period pleated style. Full carpets, matching door panels, and even pleated trim on the cab's rear bulkhead helps make it feel luxurious inside, not basic. A GM tilt column is an easy fit and offers a fat three-spoke steering wheel and there's a stubby T-handle shifter on the floor for the TH350 3-speed automatic transmission. The dash is as it was when it left the factory, still filled with original gauges that cover the basics. You'll note the brake and throttle pedals are on opposite sides of the steering column rather than all jammed together on one side or the other, so this truck is comfortable even on long hauls. There is no radio, no heat, no defrost, but this truck is hardly an uncomfortable place to spend some time.

To Mopar fans, the 350 cubic inch Chevy V8 under the hood might seem blasphemous, but it's hard to argue with the easy service, plentiful parts, and smooth torque that make the small block V8 famous. It's got all the usual upgrades, including an Edelbrock carburetor and intake manifold, Hooker headers, and plenty of chrome (this is a hot rod, after all), and it looks right under the Plymouth's pointed hood. A big aluminum radiator has no problem keeping it cool and the TH350 3-speed automatic transmission always seems to find the right gear. There's a 10-bolt rear end hanging on original leaf springs in back, augmented by traction bars that are a good idea in a lightweight pickup truck like this. Glasspack-style mufflers add a great cackle to the exhaust and use neat tips that poke through the rear valence. Traditional Cragar mags have a period feel and carry 195/60/15 front and 215/65/15 rear BFGoodrich T/A radials.

A neat find for the guy who appreciates the unusual, this Plymouth pickup has a lot to offer. It's stylish, practical, and surprisingly quick, all things that make it endearing to us today. Call now!