’58 Chevy Apache – APACHE WARRIOR

One Man’s Legacy of Chevrolet Nostalgia

THERE ARE CERTAIN IDEAS THAT STICK WITH US THROUGHOUT OUR LIVES, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO TRUCKS—AND IT’S NO ACCIDENT. The iconic haulers showcased in our favorite television programs and movies were chosen by producers because they’re badass machines. There might have been some product placement motivation from sponsors behind the scenes, but by and large, our favorite trucks, especially those that made an impression on us when we were kids, were chosen to wow audiences.

Yet, some of us are inspired by real-life heroes rather than actors—people or vehicles—so, tagging a truck with a positive memory because we admired the driver/builder is also pretty common.

I WANTED TO BUILD ONE MY WAY. THE SAME THING GOES FOR THE COLOR. I REMEMBER SEEING A LATE ’50’S CHEVY SEDAN IN A MAGAZINE WHEN I WAS ABOUT 15-16 YEARS OLD, AND I’VE WANTED MY FUTURE TRUCK TO BE PAINTED THAT SAME BURGUNDY COLOR EVER SINCE.”
— AUSTIN SMITH

Austin Smith, a custom car/ truck/motorcycle fiend from Beavercreek, Ohio, definitely falls into this second category. “Ever since I was little, my family had an old Chevy work truck,” he tells us. “After I got a little older, I wanted to build one my way. The same thing goes for the color. I remember seeing a late ’50’s Chevy sedan in a magazine when I was about 15-16 years old, and I’ve wanted my future truck to be painted that same burgundy color ever since.”

When Austin’s chance to build his dream truck finally presented itself, he didn’t hesitate to chase it down. He’s had his share of custom cars in the past, so this build wasn’t going to be his first go-around. He’s developed an elevated taste for quality as he’s matured, so he wasn’t interested in cutting corners. “This time around, I wanted a very clean, very reliable and very well-done ride that will stay in my family for a long time.”

THIS TIME AROUND, I WANTED A VERY CLEAN, VERY RELIABLE AND VERY WELL-DONE RIDE THAT WILL STAY IN MY FAMILY FOR A LONG TIME.”

Austin purchased his ’58 Chevy Apache pickup from a coworker seven years before starting the build, but once he got going he discovered that it was going to need more attention than he initially planned. “[It] looked decent enough and relatively stock, but after some minor tune-ups and maintenance, I started to realize the truck was a little rougher than I first thought.”

Austin talked to Pat Patterson of Led Sled Customs, who was in the process of building a bike for him, and Pat recommended Jake Burton of Burton’s Kreative Motorwerks in Dayton, Ohio. “I’d heard nothing but good things about Jake in the past, and I trusted him enough to start putting in some real work on my new truck project.”

THE GUYS WANTED TO SEE THE TRUCK SITTING LOW WITH CLASSIC STREET-ROD STYLING, AS WELL AS AN ADDED DOSE OF PERSONAL STYLE TO MAKE THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE UNFORGETTABLE. ”

Austin and Jake sat down and went over some basic ideas. The guys agreed upon some of the same types of modifications and styling points, and eventually Austin gave Jake full creative freedom over the project. According to Austin, “[Jake] showed a level of interest in the truck that matched mine, and he took the initiative to start planning the build. I knew from there that my truck was in good care.”

The guys wanted to see the truck sitting low with classic street-rod styling, as well as an added dose of personal style to make the driving experience unforgettable. To start, Jake lined up an impressive array of premium suspension components to bring the Apache down to a respectable cruising height while maintaining an excellent ride quality. A set of 20/22 Coys wheels also made its way into the equation as well.

THERE’S ABSOLUTELY NOTHING ABOUT THE TRUCK THAT I WOULD CHANGE OR DO DIFFERENTLY, OR EVEN THINK ABOUT ADDING IN THE FUTURE.”
— AUSTIN SMITH

When it came time to address the truck’s exterior, Jake found that almost all of the original sheet metal was unusable, which proved to be one of, if not the, largest obstacles during the entire build process. Luckily, quality aftermarket sheet metal is readily available. Once the truck’s new skin was in place, Jake kept things pretty streamlined as far as modifications go. Keen eyes will notice subtle, incredible metalwork, such as the contoured bed wall and the narrowed grille. The House of Kolor Brandywine paint finishes it all off perfectly— it’s the exact color Austin had wanted since he was a teen. “Some of Jake’s tweaks to the exterior might go unnoticed, but he took his time and followed his creative side to make it stand out when parked near other Apache pickups.”

To set the truck apart even further, the interior was slated for a full overhaul complete with a Wiseguys bench seat wrapped in an attractive whiskey tan Ultraleather upholstery, with matching carpet, paneling and dashboard. Jake filled the cab with top-notch accessories in the form of a Billet Specialties steering wheel, Stewart Warner gauges and a Vintage Air A/C system, just in time for summer cruising. Wicked Whips, another shop local to the Dayton area, scored an assist with the creation of the plush interior landscape, which has come to be Austin’s favorite facet of his freshly restored pickup. “Jake blew this thing out of the water, inside and out. It’s apparent to me that he went above and beyond what I expected, and I set my expectations high from the start.”

Austin might not have been inspired to build this truck based on a popular movie or TV show, but his experience with growing up with an old Chevy pickup in the family was just as meaningful. The road from start to finish spanned nearly a year and half, which isn’t too bad considering the amount of work and strategic planning that was poured into the truck’s resurrection. “There’s absolutely nothing about the truck that I would change or do differently, or even think about adding in the future,” Austin adds. “Jake Burton is a true artist and has earned a lifelong customer in me. Actually, we already have a new project in the works.”

We’d be hard-pressed to make any suggestions for this Apache, either. It has the looks, unique styling, killer upgrades and the reliability that Austin was after. Now, about that other project he just mentioned, we’re waiting just as eagerly as you probably are to see what it could be.

[divider]TRUCK SPECS[/divider]

OWNER

Austin Smith
1958 Chevrolet Apache
Beavercreek, OH

ENGINE

• Shop: Burton’s Kreative Motorwerks and TK Performance, Dayton, OH
• 2004 Chevrolet 6.0L V-8
• Chevrolet 4L60-E transmission
• Magnuson supercharger
• Aluminum radiator
• Standalone wiring harness
• Brian Tooley Racing stage three camshaft
• Magnuson intake manifold
• C4 Corvette headers
• 2.5-inch Magnaflow exhaust system
• Liquid-to-air heat exchanger
• Custom 3-inch driveshaft
• Circle D torque converter
• Speedway Motors transmission cooler
• Chris Alston’s Chassisworks Fab9 9-inch rearend

CHASSIS & SUSPENSION

• Shop: Burton’s Kreative Motorwerks Factory 1958 GM frame updated with IFS tube cross member and step notch
• Tubular control arms
• 2500 front and 2600 rear Firestone ’bags
• Air Lift AutoPilot V2 air management module mounted under bed
• Speedway Motors power rack-and-pinion
• Monroe shocks
• 3-link rear suspension setup
• Custom aluminum fuel tank
• Wilwood brakes and master cylinder

WHEELS & TIRES

• 20/22-inch Coys wheels
• 225/35ZR20 and 295/30/ ZR22 Delinte Desert Storm tires

BODY & PAINT

• Shop: Burton’s Kreative Motorwerks
• House of Kolor Brandywine
• Replacement grille removed of chrome and narrowed
• Rolled rain gutters
• Welded one-piece doghouse
• Bed wall contoured to cab
• Lengthened stake pockets
• Raised bed floor
• Wood bed floor
• Roll pan

INTERIOR & STEREO

• Shop: Wicked Whips, Dayton, OH
• Wiseguys bench seat
• Whiskey tan Ultraleather upholstery
• Smoothed dash
• Stewart Warner instrumentation
• Billet Specialties steering wheel
• Kenwood sound system
• Vintage Air A/C
• Power windows
• Deleted wing windows
• Specialty Power Windows wiper kit

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What categories can I browse when looking for classic vehicles?

When searching for classic vehicles, you can explore a wide array of categories to suit your preferences and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories available:

Price Ranges

• High-End Selection: Exclusive vehicles priced at $250,000 and above.
• Budget-Friendly Options: Selections available for under $5,000.

Vehicle Type

• Antiques and Pre-War Models: Discover historical cars that predate World War II.
• Convertibles: Find classic open-top cars perfect for leisurely drives.
• Motorcycles: Browse vintage two-wheelers that have stood the test of time.
• Trucks: Explore classic trucks offering a timeless appeal.

Specialty Sections

• Auctions: Participate in auctions, bidding on rare and unique classics.
• Future Classics: Identify current models poised to become classics.
• Luxury Performance: Indulge in high-performance classics with luxury features.
• Muscle Cars: Dive into the world of high-power, high-performance vehicles.

New Arrivals

• Latest Listings: Stay updated with the newest classic vehicle additions.

This diverse selection ensures there’s something for every classic vehicle enthusiast, giving you plenty of options when browsing.

Are there any specific restoration or modification details mentioned for individual listings of the 1958 Chevrolet Apache?

While evaluating various listings for the 1958 Chevrolet Apache, several specific restoration and modification details emerge:

Original and Unrestored Models

• Low Mileage Original: One listing highlights a 1958 Chevrolet Apache with only 28,379 miles, maintaining its original, stock condition without any restorations.

Modern Conversions and Engine Swaps

• Electric Conversion: A standout version includes an extensive electric vehicle conversion, featuring a 2020 NetGain HyPer 9HV engine paired with multiple Tesla model components.
• Restomod Highlights: Another Apache features a restomod with a modern 5.3L LS V8 engine equipped with fuel injection, coupled with an automatic transmission and a robust Ford 9-inch rear end.

Restoration Projects

• Complete Body Overhaul: Some listings mention restored vehicles with comprehensive bodywork and fresh paint jobs.

Custom Features and Upgrades

• Hot Rod and Aesthetic Customizations: A “Fleet Side Short Box Pick-up Truck” boasts a hot rod flat black paint, a 350 cubic inch engine, and a custom transmission.
• Custom Interiors and Exteriors: A striking variant features a metallic maroon exterior and a custom black interior, illustrating enhancements for a more personalized look.

Mechanical and Functional Enhancements

• Brake and Mirror Upgrades: Several listings detail practical upgrades, such as new brakes, rear bumpers, and side mirrors.
• Engine and Transmission Options: Options range from traditional 235ci straight-six engines with manual transmissions to rare large-window models sporting unique configurations like a ‘four-speed stick’.

Special Editions and Two-Truck Offerings

• Dual Truck Packages: One opportunity presents a package deal with two trucks, one of which includes the iconic six-cylinder Stovebolt engine.

These details underscore a rich variety within the 1958 Chevrolet Apache listings, catering to both restoration purists and those seeking modern upgrades or custom aesthetics.

What are some notable features of specific 1958 Chevrolet Apache listings?

Notable Features of Specific 1958 Chevrolet Apache Listings

The 1958 Chevrolet Apache lineup offers a range of unique vehicles, each with its own standout features and characteristics. Below are some notable highlights:

1. Original Models and Restorations

• Unrestored Original: One listing showcases a 1958 Apache with only 28,379 miles, maintained in its original stock condition, offering a rare glimpse into automotive history.
• Complete Restoration: Another example is a fully restored model featuring a brand-new paint job, emphasizing its like-new appearance and enhanced aesthetic appeal.

2. Innovative Conversions

• Electric Conversion (EV): One Apache has undergone an electric conversion, boasting a modern NetGain HyPer 9HV engine coupled with Tesla model components, merging classic design with cutting-edge technology.

3. Performance Enhancements

• Restomod with Modern Engine: A highlighted Apache restomod includes a modern 5.3L LS V8 engine with fuel injection, paired with an automatic transmission and a robust Ford 9 rear axle.
• Upgraded Powertrain: Some models feature notable upgrades like a 350-cubic inch engine with a 350 transmission, ensuring enhanced power and driving experience.

4. Special Features and Custom Work

• Custom Paint and Interior: There’s a model with a striking metallic maroon exterior contrasted by a custom black interior, underscoring attention to detail and craftsmanship.
• NAPCO 4×4 Conversion: Another standout is the NAPCO 4×4 version, offering off-road capabilities that set it apart from the typical rear-wheel drive configurations.

5. Unique Configurations

• Fleet Side Short Box: An Apache with a fleet side short box configuration features a 235ci straight-six engine paired with a 3-speed manual transmission, providing a nostalgic driving experience.

6. Budget-Friendly Options

• Affordable Restorations: There are listings for those on a budget, such as a well-maintained Apache with new rear bumper, side mirrors, and brakes, making it a practical choice for enthusiasts looking to enter the classic truck market without a hefty investment.

These varied listings highlight the versatility and appeal of the 1958 Chevrolet Apache, whether you’re interested in preserving history or embracing modern advancements.

Can I refine my search for a 1958 Chevrolet Apache based on specific criteria?

Absolutely, you can refine your search for a 1958 Chevrolet Apache using specific criteria. Here’s how:

Step-by-Step Guide to Refining Your Search

1. Set Alerts: Begin by setting up alerts to notify you when new listings for a 1958 Chevrolet Apache become available.
2. Refine Your Criteria: Utilize search filters to narrow down options. You can specify:
   • Price Range: Adjust the minimum and maximum price to match your budget.
   • Condition: Choose from categories such as excellent, good, or project-ready.
   • Location: Pick a preferred geographic area to find options closer to you.
3. Sorting Options:
   • Sort by Date: Keep up with the latest additions by sorting from newest to oldest.
   • Sort by Price: Arrange results from lowest to highest or vice versa, based on your financial preferences.
4. Results Per Page: Customize how many results you want to see on each page, whether it’s 15, 30, or 60 listings.

These tools allow you to tailor your search experience effectively to find the perfect 1958 Chevrolet Apache. Happy hunting!

What are some other popular classic car models searched for alongside the Chevrolet Apache?

When people show interest in the Chevrolet Apache, they often explore a variety of other iconic classic cars. Here are some popular models frequently searched alongside it:

1. Ford Mustang: Known for its timeless design and powerful performance, the Mustang remains a favorite among car enthusiasts.
2. Chevrolet Corvette: A true icon of American engineering, the Corvette offers speed and luxury in a sleek package.
3. Chevrolet Camaro: Recognized for its dynamic style and robust engines, the Camaro is a staple in the muscle car category.
4. Chevrolet C10 Pickup: Loved for its utility and classic styling, this pickup is a nostalgic choice for truck fans.
5. Chevy Impala: This model is well-regarded for its spacious interior and smooth ride, making it a classic family car.
6. Ford Thunderbird: Combining elegance with performance, the Thunderbird attracts collectors who appreciate refined design.
7. Chevy Bel Air: Famous for its distinctive 1950s flair, the Bel Air captures the essence of post-war American automotive creativity.

These cars, alongside the Chevrolet Apache, form a cornerstone in the rich history of classic automobiles.

How many 1958 Chevrolet Apaches are currently listed for sale?

Currently, there are 14 listings available for the 1958 Chevrolet Apache.

What sorting options are available for viewing the listings of 1958 Chevrolet Apaches?

When browsing the listings of 1958 Chevrolet Apaches, you can organize your search using various sorting options to better suit your preferences:

• Date Listed: Prioritize the most recent additions to the list or start with the ones that have been listed the longest.
• Year: Focus specifically on vehicles from 1958 or see how they stack against different model years if available.
• Make/Model: Arrange by the specific make and model for easier comparison.
• Asking Price: Sort by price, choosing to explore either budget-friendly options first or high-end deals at the top.

Additionally, you can opt to sort the listings in either ascending or descending order based on your selected criteria, allowing for a more customized browsing experience.

Are there any modified or custom 1958 Chevrolet Apaches available for sale?

Austin purchased his ’58 Chevy Apache pickup from a coworker seven years before starting the build, but once he got going he discovered that it was going to need more attention than he initially planned.

His journey into the world of classic restorations revealed a diverse market of modified and custom 1958 ChevroletApaches. Among the standout builds, he found inspiration in the E-pache EV conversion, which featured a cutting-edge 2020 NetGain HyPer 9HV engine. This innovative approach to classic car modification sparked his interest in eco-friendly technology.

For those seeking a more traditional power boost, the restomod Apache with a modern 5.3L LS V8 engine and fuel injection was a marvel. Its automatic transmission and complete body restoration, paired with a fresh paint job, exemplified the seamless blend of vintage charm and contemporary performance.

Additionally, the Hot Rod Flat Black version, complete with a 350 cubic inch engine and transmission, captured the essence of classic American muscle, appealing to those with a passion for raw power and bold aesthetics.

These examples highlighted the vast array of possibilities for customizing a ’58 Apache, motivating Austin to envision the endless potential for his own project.

Are there any aesthetic or stylistic changes made to these vehicles?

Aesthetic changes can include unique paint finishes, such as a Hot Rod Flat Black look, to give the vehicle a distinct style.

What kind of restoration work has been done on these vehicles?

Restoration work often involves comprehensive bodywork and the application of a new paint job to enhance the vehicle’s appearance and condition.

What kind of transmissions are available in these custom builds?

Custom builds can feature automatic transmissions and other specialized options like the 350 Tranny.

Are there any specific custom engines used in these vehicles?

Yes, examples of custom engines include the integration of a NetGain HyPer 9HV engine and the installation of a modern 5.3L LS V8 engine.

What types of modifications are available for a 1958 Chevrolet Apache?

Modifications for a 1958 Chevrolet Apache include electric vehicle conversions using advanced components, modern engine upgrades such as a 5.3L LS V8 with fuel injection, and custom paint jobs.