The CAMROSE BOOSTER, September 22, 2020 – Page 22
The automotive section of
Sleeper 1958 GMC features lots of power By Murray Green
Lorne Swedberg of Meeting Creek owns a 1958 GMC truck. “I bought this truck in Camrose about two years ago. As you see it now, I haven’t done anything to it. I’ve always wanted a truck like this. I just like older vehicles and the style of this truck,” said Lorne. While many GMC and Chevrolet trucks are mechanically identical, GMC is positioned as a premium offering to the mainstream Chevrolet brand, with luxury vehicles such as the Denali series. In 1958, most trucks came with a six-cylinder motor. “When I purchased this truck, it already had a 502 (crate) engine, it’s so not factory. I’ve done a little work on the motor, but other than that, I haven’t done a thing to it,” added Lorne. From 1939 to 1974, GMC had its own line of six-cylinder engines, first the inline sixes known as “Jimmy’s” from 1939 to 1959, and then their own V6 from 1960 until 1974, of which a V8 and a V12 version also existed. Additionally, from 1955 through 1959, the less than twoton, domestic GMC gasoline trucks were equipped with Pontiac, Buick and Oldsmobile V8s–whereas the Canadian models used Chevrolet engines. “It is a fun truck to
MEAN MACHINE
Murray Green, Camrose Booster Lorne Swedberg likes the style of the 1958 GMC truck he drives. He bought it for the look, but enjoys the comfort of the modern ride and the big 502 engine.
drive. The truck features a three-speed automatic (original was called a hydramatic) transmission. I don’t drive the truck enough and I wish I had it out more.
FUN FACTS
In 1958, it was the first year for new Fleetside bed (called Wideside by GMC) in 6.5-foot (two-metre) and eight-foot (2.4-metre) lengths, with a significant redesign of the front end. All light-duty trucks were now called Apache, medium-duty trucks were called Viking and heavy-duty trucks were called Spartan. Trucks now had four headlights instead of the previous two, and featured a shorter, wider grille running the width of the front end. Parking lights were located in the grille instead of being in the front of the fender. The hood was similar to 1955-56 models, but with a flat valley in the middle. It was the first year for factory-equipped air conditioning. GM promoted its 50th year of production and introduced anniversary models for each brand: Cadillac, Buick, Oldsmobile, Pontiac and Chevrolet. The trucks also received similar attention to appearance, while staying essentially durable, with minimal adornment. The new Apache model came standard with painted grille and front bumper, and could be upgraded to chrome. The new Fleetside model featured a smoothsided cargo box and larger bed capacity. Model designations were shortened to 31, 32, 35 and 38 series. A recasting of the 283 small-block gave thicker cylinder walls and side motor-mount bosses.
I like to drive it to watch my grandchildren play ball (last year).” GMC traces its history to the 1902 founding of the Rapid Motor Vehicle Company in Pontiac, Michigan. In 1909, William C. Durant gained control of Rapid Motor Vehicle Company and made it a subsidiary of his General Motors Company. “The truck is on a newer frame, an ’80s model frame. With the modern features (such as power steering), it is much more enjoyable to drive. My Roadrunner doesn’t compare with this truck. The truck is so much more smoother to handle.” The Chevrolet Task Force was Chevrolet’s successor to the Advance Design series. The Task Force Series ran from late 1955 (second series) through 1959. At GMC dealers, it was called the Blue Chip Series. The 1955 second series offered standard options and add-ons such as 12-volt
electrical systems, Chevrolet’s first V8 engine since 1915 (265 cubic inches), and Fleetside beds in 1958. To accommodate an industry-wide switch from
two to four headlamps, all Chevy passenger car and truck models saw styling changes. Canadian GMC trucks were assembled in either Oshawa or Montreal.
Old Ride? If you have a vintage ride (rebuilt or original) or even if you’re in the midst of a build: street, rat or restoration, we’d like to profile your project. Contact Murray Green, News Reporter Phone 780.672.3142 Email murrayg@camrosebooster.com
