Gil Longnecker of Classic '36 Pickup.com sees automobiles as synonymous with art, and when his Thoroughbred Coachworks transitioned from concours competition work involving replica Bugattis, Mercedes and Tiger Roadsters to classic American pickups, his approach remained the same: go to any lengths to capture the essence of the original and, by technology and innovation, interpret to an even higher level. Judging from the numbers of his 1936 Ford pickup replicas appearing in shows and events all across the country -and winning the top awards-the Classic '36 Ford replica is being reinvented by kit builders and replica enthusiasts as the most appealing show truck going.
No newcomer to classic builds, Classic '36 Pickup.com opened its doors over 30 years ago. Calling itself a "small automaker," the closely-held corporation still develops and manufactures its own designs, from bodies and frames to molds and jigs, and operates all in-house departments from its 27 acre headquarters near Mount Dora, Florida.
How Big a Boy Are You?
Creative control of the truck concept has ensured that the original old-fashioned look doesn't need to be cookie-cutter cramped, and can be adapted to today's customers. For example, you don't have to be of spare build like Henry Ford to comfortably drive around in your 1936 pickup replica, because a "Biggie" cab variant offers a difference-making three additional inches of arm and leg room. And for folk of significantly larger girth, a whole separate "Big Boy" model is out and fast becoming the best-selling version of the Classic '36 Ford pickup replica.
Driveability choices abound as the Classic '36 is built on the ever-durable late model Ford Ranger donor. A four- or six-cylinder Ranger engine, or a peppy optional V8 conversion package with either auto or manual transmission-- even a 4-wheel drive--can customize your replica ride with all the amenities of modern technology. The Classic '36 Ford project is termed as "bolt on" and easy for the home builder, because replica components are so perfectly engineered to assemble on to the Ranger donor. After the old cab and bed are removed, the new cab is mounted, steering column and pedals are re-installed in the cab, the wiring is laid back in, and you will be on the road with what's been called the prettiest little pickup there ever was. Depending on how much uniquely custom work you plan, estimated build hours run between 150 and 300, or between two and six months. Factory pre-assembly packages can cut down home-build time dramatically, and a completely turnkey replica can be hand-built for you if that's the way you want to go.
The Classic '36 Ford pick-up replica has so many factory options, flat beds, special parts and features available that each build becomes personal to the owner, and owners can take it as far as they like from there. You'll want to peruse the website "Builders' Showcase" to look at numerous one-of-a-kind beautifully crafted show trucks, many sporting prestigious awards, as well as a couple of impressive models set up for racing. Show awards are nice, but the main thing about these customer builds is that they obviously say "fun, fun, fun," which is what this truck is really all about..
