BUYING this eye catching 1937 Dodge Coupe truck for a mere $45, proud owner Roger Telford has turned it into a timeless masterpiece.
The truck is now estimated at around $30,000, and at the time of its purchase it had traveled 90,000 miles.
“I bought it in 1974 from my cousin, Fred Bishop and conducted a full restoration,” Mr Telford said.
The vehicle’s restoration included an engine rebuild, where parts were sourced from his father in law, a sandblast, a paint job, new panels and upholstery.
As Mr Telford is a builder by trade and as such he ensured only the best timber was used in the restoration process.
“I remember I bought proper seasoned hardwood from an auction at the Oatmill Cinema,” Mr Telford said.
“At times it was difficult to restore due to its unusual body shape.
“However all parts fitted it perfectly.”
Mr Telford said the restoration process took some time as he had a growing family, and would work on the vehicle when he had the chance.
As the truck is the only one of its kind city, it always manages to catch the eye of curious community members.
“There would only be a handful of the cars left, and people are always interested in the spare wheel on the side and the car’s tiny back,” Mr Telford said.
Dodge vehicles were always present in the lives of the Telford family, hence the desire for Mr Telford to buy this one when he was just 20 years old.
In 2002 the truck took part in its first rally.
“I am part of the Mount Gambier Veteran and Vintage Car Club, and around this time in 2002 it took part in its first Australia Day Rally,” he said.
The car enthusiast has restored a number of vehicles including a 1929 Plymouth, 1928 Oakland and a 1928 Dodge Victory Six.
The Dodge truck has won a string of awards at various car shows including the 2003 Show N Shine in Naracoorte, 2010 Best Pre-War Car in Naracoorte and 2003 Best Commercial Vehicle for the Australia Day rally.
