International Pickup Truck (1948) – Driving pleasure for Jan and Ciska

The love for the pickup truck in America remains undiminished – for sporty, recreational and daily use. Jan and Ciska have also been devoted to the impressive American pickup trucks for years. In his area, Jan is known as the “restoration architect”, because he has given many a classic workhorse a new life on the Dutch roads. When he saw this International Pickup Truck from Texas, his heart rate shot up. His heart literally jumped for joy. It is a confirmation that human emotions always play a role – it is and remains a matter of the heart.

Jan found it a beautiful and appealing model, and by now rare – certainly in the Netherlands. The purchase was made. Yet there was a moment of regret. Not because of the time or energy the restoration would cost, but because of the heavily dented sheet metal and the knowledge that the engine was irreparably damaged.

The search for an engine for the International Pickup Truck

Driving a rare International Pickup Truck means choosing individuality and character. But to realize that dream, a suitable engine had to be found first. That search proved difficult. Good advice was expensive, and suitable parts were scarce. In the end, Jan decided to change tack.

Coincidence played a golden role in this: he came into contact with someone who had bought a Packard in America – with a loose, reconditioned engine. The Packard was sold almost immediately, but the new owner had other engine plans. And so the reconditioned Packard engine became available.

A golden opportunity

A golden opportunity for Jan to put his heart and soul into his International Pickup Truck. The bodywork was taken care of, the interior was reupholstered, the wooden loading floor replaced, and the toughest job: making the Packard engine fit. The finishing touch? A new coat of paint in two special colors, which perfectly match the character of the pickup.

For the technical enthusiasts

Jan: “The problem was making the gearbox fit. I had to make an intermediate piece from a thick-walled pipe with two flanges, which I mounted on the engine. Also, the Packard block is five centimeters longer. That meant I had to move the radiator forward.”

After an intensive period of three months, Jan could finally enjoy tangible nostalgia. The wonderful sound of the humming engine, the beautiful details, the windshield that you can open in good weather, and the music from the pick-up player under the dashboard…

“Riding along in my automobile, my baby beside me at the wheel.”

Slow down with the International Pickup Truck

Jan and his wife Ciska don't want to feel like they're being lived. They consciously take time for themselves – to experience, to enjoy. And that works out very well in their International Pickup Truck. There are plans to explore the rugged nature of Scotland this year. The pickup fits in perfectly with that. It will be pure Driving pleasure.

(The photos continue below.)