A Perfect ’59 Chevy Apache? | STUDENT OF THE GAME

A Crash eCourse to Classic Truck Building

The Internet, if used correctly, can help you achieve some really great things. Sure, there are countless pitfalls lurking in the dark corners of the Web, and many meaningless time sucks that you willingly subject yourself to on a daily basis. You just need to display some serious self-control at times, man, and just say no to click bait. C’mon, don’t get too excited now, but do you really think there are local women just waiting to meet you…at 3 in the morning?! Well, there might be a couple actually, but none that you should be getting mixed up. You should know better by now.

ABOVE: ONE OF CHUCK’S FAVORITE ADDITIONS TO THE TRUCK ARE THE 20-INCH WHEELSMITH SPOKES WHEELS. THEY FIT THE APACHE’S NATURALLY SUBTLE PERSONALITY PERFECTLY.

Anyway, getting back to the initial public service announcement about the Internet being a positive place—it totally can be. Just ask Chuck Velazco (@chucksee), a Miami native who has developed a rather strong connection with his keyboard. Now, he hasn’t started up his own religion or anything wild like that, but he has taught himself how to work on his own vehicle projects in the privacy of his own two-car garage.

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“After graduating from the University of YouTube, I decided I was capable of enough to dive headfirst into air suspension, and give it a real shot,” Chuck says about his newfound knowledge.

After watching endless tutorial videos and quick how-to clips, he was able to figure out what equipment and tools he would need, and how to sharpen his skills before going too far out on his own.

“I learned and researched everything that I could, and even learned how to weld by watching hundreds of hours worth of instructional videos”, Chuck admits. “In the age of technology and limitless accessibility for information, we are our own greatest hurdle.”

If you didn’t get goosebumps from reading that last line, go back and read it again. That’s some inspiring stuff. Even after spending that much time in front of the computer screen and even more hours spent applying what he had learned, Chuck doesn’t have any type of formal certification or documentation to show for his attendance at YouTube U—unless you count the existence of this ’59 Chevy Apache. If it isn’t certified physical proof that Chuck benefitted heavily from his time spent studying under his many online tutors, then we don’t know what is.

YOU JUST NEVER KNOW WHAT KINDS OF SURPRISES CHUCK KEEPS HIDDEN INSIDE HIS OLD TOOLBOX.

This Apache isn’t Chuck’s first ride around the carousel, but it was his first experience working with this particular model. He’s built six previous trucks in the past seven years he’s been applying the skills he has learned. All of the trucks have been Chevy trucks spanning across three eras from ’59-’72, including a ’68 short bed C-10 for his mom.

EVEN THOUGH THE BED FLOOR HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO LOOK LIKE AN ORDINARY WOOD PLANK FLOOR, THERE ARE ACTUALLY PNEUMATIC SHOCKS THAT ELEVATE THE SURFACE TO REVEAL THE AIR COMPONENTS AND CHASSIS UNDERNEATH.

“I’ve always had a strong passion for classic Chevy trucks—they run in my blood”, Chuck says. “My late grandfather always said to buy Chevrolet because it’s the best out there.”

The story behind how Chuck first came across the Apache really is all about being in the right place at the right time, keeping your eyes open and not being afraid to ask if something is for sale—because you just never know.

“I was on a business trip in New York and decided to take the bridge over to the New Jersey warehouse district,” Chuck says. “As I was driving through poking my head in every bay that was open, I thought I had spotted a truck deep in the back of one of them. I got down to inquire about the old green truck, and an hour later I had made a deal to buy it.”

Chuck got real lucky when he found the truck because it had been kept indoors for quite some time. Even though the original paint did show patina, the amount of rust on this thing was very minimal. The rest of the truck seemed to be unmolested as well, with everything being original how it was in 1959 except with the natural weathering of father time and Mother Nature. This is the stuff truck builders dream of.

IF YOU’RE INTO THE BARN FIND LOOK, THERE’S NO TOPPING NATURALLY WEATHERED TRIM PIECE ACCESSORIES AND PANELS.

At this point, Chuck was just about finished with his mom’s truck build. As soon as he handed her the keys, he started ripping into the Apache. Since he was more than OK with leaving the exterior just the way nature left it, he began sizing up the suspension and engine. He knew right away that he wanted to plant a brand new crate engine in the truck to take any guesswork out of a potential rebuild. He chose a GM 350 HO because it wasn’t anything too crazy, but something that was a workhorse that would be ultra reliable and capable of being built up if he wanted to go that route later on. When it came time to start prepping the chassis, he ordered a few parts from PorterBuilt Fab and ended up with a fresh frame that he then upgraded with an AccuAir e-Level system and goods from RideTech. Chuck even took the time to trick out the bed with Tricky Air bed shocks, which are pneumatic driven shocks that open and close the bed floor, and are controlled through a wireless remote—a first in the truck industry. It would seem that Chuck had a flawless attendance record during his days of studying.

CHUCK KEPT THE MOTOR SWAP SIMPLE WITH A CLEAN CHEVY CRATE 350 DECKED OUT WITH SOME POWERADDING ACCESSORIES. LOOK FOR AN LS SWAP IN THE NEAR FUTURE.

Aside from the Apache’s suspension and motor work, the interior is really the only other area that received any updating, but even that was kept at a minimum as to allow the truck’s genuine character to shine through. The original factory seat frame was utilized for reupholstering, and some new black carpet was laid down on top of a layer Dynamat sound deadening material to keep road noise down to whisper. There is still plenty of patina left to remind Chuck and his lucky passengers of the rare breed of vehicle they are lucky enough to be riding in.

“The truck has just the right amount of creature comforts of a modern vehicle, and gets a lot more thumbs up than my late-model Silverado,” he says.

In only 368 days (yep, he kept count), Chuck had himself a truck that he can see himself wanting to cruise into the future in.

“This truck will stick with me for the long haul—it’s my dream vehicle,” he says. “It’s not every day that you come across a vehicle with the particulars this one has in its current rust free state. I do, however, foresee an LS swap in the near future though.”

Chuck would agree that he learns something new with every single truck he finishes. At the end of this project, he’s come away with a real gem of knowledge that he’d like to leave with our readers. Chuck, we’ll let you close this story bud: “I learned that it’s not about how your truck ultimately looks, but how it makes you feel when it’s done,” he says.

[divider] TRUCK SPECS [/divider]

OWNER

Chuck Velazco
1959 Chevrolet Apache 3100
Miami

ENGINE

Chevy Turnkey Crate 350 HO V-8
Edelbrock 4-barrell carb
Full stainless steel 2.5-inch exhaust system
K&N filter
Intake headers
2016 700r transmission by Monster Transmission
Single 1-piece driveshaft
1980 Camaro rear drive axle

CHASSIS & SUSPENSION

Shop: @Chucksee (owner)
Porterbuilt Fabrication frame
Frame powdercoated after assembly
AccuAir e-Level
Ridetech front and rear shocks
Mustang II rack and pinion
Tricky air bed shocks
Bed floor modified with deployable pneumatic shocks
Wilwood master cylinder and drilled-slotted rotors

WHEELS & TIRES

Custom 20-inch Wheel Smith wheels
245/35/20 Nitto whitewall tires

BODY & PAINT

Original, natural patina GM factory paint
GM grilles
Barden farm bumpers
T3 headlights

INTERIOR & STEREO

George’s Upholstery, Miami
Factory seat frame
Custom upholstery
Original GM gauges, steering wheel, stereo, and patina finish
Lizard skin ceramic thermal protection
Dynamat acoustic barrier
80/20 black loop carpet

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are there any vehicles available from private sellers in the listings?

If you’re wondering whether there are vehicles available from private sellers in the listings, the answer is yes. Among the options listed, there’s a 1959 pickup truck offered by a private seller. This truck, originally from Arizona, has been used for promotional purposes and has accumulated less than 8,000 miles. It’s priced at $45,000 or best offer.

In contrast, another 1959 pickup is available through a dealership, carrying a price tag of $50,000, or best offer. There’s also another pickup featuring a V8 motor and disc brakes available, though the seller type isn’t specified.

Each listing comes with unique features and pricing, giving you a range of choices depending on whether you prefer buying from a private seller or a dealership.

What details are provided about specific 1959 Chevrolet Apache vehicles on the listings?

Details of 1959 Chevrolet Apache Listings

The listings provide a range of details about various 1959 Chevrolet Apaches, each with unique features, conditions, and pricing. Here’s a breakdown of what each listing reveals:

Price Range and Condition

Budget-Friendly Options: The prices for these classic trucks start at a modest $3,000, reflecting models needing restoration or those not currently operational.
Mid-Range Choices: Several Apaches fall in the $40,000 to $50,000 range, often boasting some restoration efforts, reliable engines, or unique customization.
High-End Listings: Premium Apaches, meticulously restored or highly customized, can reach up to $121,000.

Restoration and Modifications

Frame Off Restoration: Some trucks mention meticulous frame-off restorations, ensuring the quality and authenticity of the vehicle.
Customization: Customized models include features like 350CI crate motors, modern transmissions, and advanced fuel injection systems for enhanced performance.

Unique Features

Classic Meets Modern: A few trucks blend the old with the new, such as those sitting on a modern Silverado chassis or equipped with Sniper Fuel Injection and coil-over adjustments for better performance.
Aesthetic Enhancements: Exteriors range from classic paint jobs to intricate woodwork in the truck beds, appealing to enthusiasts of automotive artistry.

Performance and Engine Specs

Diverse Engines: Options include traditional 6-cylinder engines and 350 Chevrolet V8 engines, some further enhanced with modern technology and performance parts.
Additional Features: Features like disc brakes improve safety and driving experience, while push-button start systems add a modern touch.

Rarity and Collectible Value

Collector’s Items: Some trucks are advertised as rare finds, which includes mentions of clear titles and specific models like the Stepside Pick-up or Fleetside Longbox.
Past Ownership: Listings sometimes note previous locations and uses, such as being purchased for promotional reasons, highlighting their limited mileage or unique provenance.

These listings cover a wide array of options for enthusiasts looking to purchase a 1959 Chevrolet Apache, from those needing a project to high-end, show-ready vehicles. Whether prioritizing historical accuracy, modern enhancements, or a blend of both, there’s an Apache to fit every collector’s desires.

How can one browse 1959 Chevrolet Apache vehicles by year of manufacture?

Discovering 1959 Chevrolet Apache Vehicles by Year

Searching for a 1959 Chevrolet Apache? Here’s a straightforward way to focus exclusively on this year:

Select the Manufacturer: Start by choosing the Chevrolet marque from the available options.
Pick the Model: Once you’ve narrowed it down to Chevrolet, look for the Apache model.
Focus on the Year: Among the listed manufacturing years, identify and select 1959 for your search.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to hone in on available 1959 Apaches, perfect for enthusiasts seeking that particular era’s charm and style. This process ensures you view relevant listings without the distraction of listings from other years.

How many 1959 Chevrolet Apache vehicles are currently listed for sale?

Currently, there are 27 listings available for the 1959 Chevrolet Apache vehicles.

What engine and transmission options are mentioned for the 1959 Chevrolet Apache?

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION DETAILS

Engine: New 350CI crate motor
Transmission: Newly installed 700R transmission

ENGINE

Chevy Turnkey Crate 350 HO V-8
Edelbrock 4-barrel carb
Full stainless steel 2.5-inch exhaust system
K&N filter
Intake headers

The powertrain of this 1959 Chevrolet Apache is impressive with its 350CI crate motor paired seamlessly with a 700R transmission. This setup promises not only reliability but also a smooth driving experience.

TRANSMISSION & DRIVETRAIN

Transmission: 2016 700R transmission by Monster Transmission
Driveshaft: Single 1-piece driveshaft
Axle: 1980 Camaro rear drive axle

Complementing the robust engine is the precision of a Monster Transmission 700R, offering a modern touch to this classic vehicle. The single-piece driveshaft and Camaro rear axle ensure that power is efficiently delivered to the road.

Enjoy the best of both worlds with this thoughtfully upgraded setup that balances vintage charm with contemporary performance enhancements.

What type of suspension is used?

The vehicle utilizes an adjustable QA1 coil-over suspension system.

What type of starter mechanism is used?

It features a push button start system for ignition.

What type of fuel injection system is used?

The vehicle is equipped with a Sniper fuel injection system.