58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Hello, I'm a long time lurker, first time poster.
I decide to finally join after perusing the site for sometime.
I hope this is Kosher that my first post is going to be a build thread.
I am amazed by the talent here on this board, and someday I aspire to be like some of the talented craftsmen here.

Alright I guess that is enough brown nosing for now.:D

So I picked up a 58 Apache about a year ago for the nice price of $ free.99.
I had been searching for a 58/59 for sometime, and could never seem to find one that fell in my price range.

This is what she looked like when I picked her up.
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...2/SDC10150.jpg

All 4 brakes were locked up, and we had to drag it out with a tractor.

Will post more soon!
Please follow along. I seek praise and admiration.:lol:

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Congrats on the score. :metal: I love those old nailheads.
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Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Nail head, I'm on board!

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Thanks, I'm a fan of them also!

Cool, I am a bit ambitious and have very high hopes for this truck, but my lack of skills and current job are somewhat of a limiting factor.

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

You guys like pictures?

Here are some more pics of when I picked her up! Enjoy.
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...3-16143842.jpg

The bed that was on it was rough!!!
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...2/SDC10167.jpg

Luckily it had another bed! Score!
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...3-16143838.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...3-16143948.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...2/SDC10161.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...3-16143919.jpg

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Welcome.
This should be a nice build.
Kim

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

So my intent of this build is to build a cool daily driver/cruiser.

The plans are to get it running and driving, then tear down for full frame off build. (we'll see how that goes!)
Ultimately my end goal is to swap in a 64 425 Nailhead, with a 5 speed.
lowered all the way around, on bags....
Still learning as I go, and trying to weigh the pros and cons of a camaro clip vs MII.

When I got it, the P.O. had lost the keys, removed the starter to rebuild it; lost it, and someone had stolen the radiator.

********Lookin for a V8 radiator if anyone has a line on one!*******

So far I have replaced the starter, rebuilt the ignition switch, freed up the brakes, and have done some clean up.

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...2/SDC10169.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...ps1299ed24.jpg
It took a pretty good smack in the back at sometime in it's life.
So what to do now? replace that section, or build a custom tube frame with C notches?

Removed the bullet riddled rock smashed front windshield and was set back by the amount of rust that was in the eyebrow. I knew there was some, but I was not aware it was this bad!

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...ps4eb7ebca.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...ps73bd7beb.jpg

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Ok, I'll bite: WHY are you calling this "nailhead". I've never heard that name applied to anything other than the old Buick engines. I've been around old Chevy trucks all my life...if this is a common nickname, I don't know how I missed it.

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Sorry I guess I should have explained a little better, or outlined my build plans up front.

This is my current car, It is a 64 Buick Wildcat with a 401. I like the power and torque of the nailhead. I just so happen to have a 425 that needs a home.

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...0-27160208.jpg

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Ah....ok, I get it. It's unique to put a Nailhead engine in one of these trucks too.

I'm looking forward to see how this comes out. The truck looks like a challenge given the amount of rust I see in the cab roof. Mine has some too but less I think. Good luck to you!

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Thank goodness for google search! I had to find out what was meant by nailhead! That's a very interesting engine! Looks like you have some work cut out for yourself. I'll tag along, should be interesting ; )
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Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Great engine choice! Nailheads look absolutely amazing when all tricked out.

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Thanks for comments, I make it sound cool, Hope it turns out the same!
Lets continue, Shall we!

So I knew there were issues with the cab, so I started my search for a better cab to replace the P.O.S. that I had. I posted a couple comments on the HAMB lookin for a better one.

I found one in Fort Worth and drove up to pick it up. I was lookin for a large window cab, but for the price of this one I couldn't pass it up! While I was up there I met another contact and picked up a few parts from them.

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...b82/photo1.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...2/SDC10596.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...2/SDC10601.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...2/SDC10609.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...2/SDC10610.jpg

The cab I picked up has some issues, inner/outer cab corners, steps, lower hinge pockets, firewall, etc....

The plan is to remove the roof and back cab panel, patch it all together and make a good cab!!

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

It's great your able to get the parts you need.
Kim

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

I saw your thread on the hamb awhile back. Looking forward to your progress!!

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Note to self, When using a spotweld cutter on a drill, make sure you don't slip off the piece of metal you are trying to seperate, and make sure your wrist is not in the direct path of the cutter!!!!!

Gonna take a week break and get back on it later!


It could have been alot worse than what it is, only 7 stiches! I guess I can say I was lucky!:waah:

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...ps6bda324f.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...ps53566188.jpg

I got as far as removing the rear panel, and was in the process of removing the inner roof panel, when I was so rudely interrupted!

Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Gosh, sorry to hear about your wrist! Thank goodness our bodies heal! Imagine that if our wounds never healed!

You've got your hands full, at least your radio area isn't cut up!
; )
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Re: 58 Apache Nailhead Build
 

Thanks Denee007! I was checkin out your build the other day, I like what you did for your radio!

At least thats one area I don't have to worry about!