Lot #390.1 - Full frame-up restoration with 300 miles since completion. The flatbed is crafted in the true woody style of white maple and mahogany veneer on solid framework. The wood is attached with polished marine grade stainless steel carriage bolts. Where brass and bronze fasteners were used to fasten some pieces, the fastenings were countersunk and then capped with the heads of polished stainless steel carriage bolts. The bed provides storage, accessible through a hinged lid with locking lift. There is also ample storage behind and under the aftermarket seat, cushioned with contoured foam and a modern support system. Craftsmanship throughout this vehicle is excellent. The all steel body and fenders were stripped to bare metal and a British trained bumper removed all the dents to minimize the use of filler. Bodywork, paint and final assembly were done by one of the Northwest's top hot rod shops. The all new interior evokes woody interiors from the past including bent wood maple lath stripes in the headliner. The cab is sound deadened including the doors. Window glass and the windshield are all new and are lightly tinted an antique green for authenticity. Flathead Ford engines are popular, and this lovely 1948 flathead runs very well. The block was pressure tested for cracks and leaks before a total rebuild. It sports vintage aluminum heads, dual Ford 94 2-barrel carburetors on a vintage intake manifold. Because the carburetors are close together and on long vertical risers, the linkage can be progressive, with the primary carb set up for easy starts, while the secondary carb is totally shut down. This provides a sweet idle and smooth around-town driving, but once the gas pedal is pushed toward the firewall, both carburetors work together and you get that 1960's Hot Rod experience. The engine has steel headers running dual exhausts back through Smitty mufflers. Sound is throaty and sweet. The transmission is rebuilt and stock 3-speed manual. Tube shocks, aftermarket springs and a dropped front axle contribute to improved handling. The mechanical brakes were replaced with 1948 vintage Ford hydraulic backing plates and drums to improve stopping power. A 1939 pedal assembly replaced the original. The steering box was replaced with a Vega box, which improves handling. All suspension components are either new or rebuilt, so it handles solidly. It has the wide white walls, bigger in back than in front, and are bias-ply tires as they would have been back in the 1960's. Its vintage gearbox and closed driveshaft rear end add to the experience. If you want something truly unique, a truck that always draws a crowd, generates enthusiastic praise and is just plain fun to drive, this truck is for you. Fit and finish is excellent throughout.