When Jeremy Timco of Southport, N.C., was searching the internet for a suitable work truck, he had his parameters fixed on a 1/2- or 3/4-ton stake bed truck, preferably manufactured by General Motors. These trucks are in demand and hold their value, so Timco focused on less expensive 1995-2005 models. He happened upon a 1995 dually with four-wheel drive and a stake bed in Phoenix, Ariz. Although distance was a problem, the truck had a 1948 General Motors Advance-Design cab perched on it. It did meet his search parameters so he placed a low-ball bid on it. He mentioned the truck to his wife of 16 years and promptly forgot about it as he continued his search.
About three weeks later, Timco received notification that he had placed the winning bid. Then the logistics of getting it home and the enlistment of family support would become a tale worthy of retelling.
“Honey, we bought an old 1948 ‘Jimmy’” would not be well received, as anyone with connubial experience would guess. Technically, it is not a 1948 GMC anyway — it is a 1995 GMC disguised as an older truck. (This would become a refrain oft repeated when Timco sought service for this unique vehicle.) The expense of shipping their prize home from Phoenix would be a budget buster for this young family, adding insult to the situation. Fortunately, Timco had access to frequent flier bonus miles and a sister who resides in Phoenix, and now a madcap plan to drive it home did not sound so nutty!
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