This is one of the best unmolested, low mile Chevrolet coupe-utes around. It was purchased by a dairy farmer in 1946 and used sparingly for the next 40 years. It was then bought by an enthusiast who stored it in his shed for a further 20 years. The odometer reading is believed to be correct. It was built to army specs, as shown by the military instruments and troop seats. The chassis, drivetrain and front metal work were shipped from GM, Canada. The stylish coupe-ute cabin was built locally by Holden.
I purchased the car from a QLD adventurer who bought it 2 years ago from the 2nd owner and prepared it for a well documented expedition from Istanbul, Turkey through Greece, Italy, Switzerland and France to the 65th celebration of the 1944 D-Day landings.
The coupe-ute's body is straight and rust-free and had minimal rust prior to restoration. All panels are remarkably straight and sound although there are some small dings that haven't been panel-beaten. Other work includes: * Fully reupholstered seat to original specs. * New headlining with period fabric. * Rear cargo floor renewed. * A canopy and frame made to original specs using WW2 lined canvas. * A rare, original roofrack. * Seatbelts.
This ute is mechanically very sound. It starts first time and idles smoothly immediately. It runs its original 216ci 6 cyl coupled to a 3speed gearbox. Also has: * new radiator * fully overhauled brake system * double acting telescopic front shock absorbers * Converted to 12 volt * Flashlube upper cylinder lube system * Fully reconditioned gearbox. Gears in perfect condition. * New clutch pressure plate. * A 70 litre long range fuel tank. * A 30 litre hidden water tank with tap. * New electrics. It does ~21mpg and uses ~1 litre of oil per 3,000km. It always runs cool. The vehicle passed both a full registration and a Chev Club inspection without issues. It could be driven around Australia tomorrow in comfort. Inspections welcomed and recommended.
Note: The last picture is of two similar vehicles without the military livery. It's a great option for those who don't like army green.
