Owner: Marty Bozek
This month we feature one of the most unique eye catching Advance Design 1/2 tons in the country. On daily runs it is a real traffic stopper. At car shows it is surrounded by curious admirers and trophies seem to be a regular occurrence.
This little 1955 1st series ½ ton is the creation of Marty and Jean Bozek near Tampa, Florida. It was bought from the second owner in 1983 after starting its life in 1955 near Colorado Springs, Colorado. The potential of this truck in primer with no prior restoration became a challenge. Almost all restoration and upgrades were done by Marty in the evening at his home near New York City. His goal was to keep it original in appearance yet add modern updates that would look different only to the expert. The result is a 1/2 ton that turns heads and puts out the performance of a V8!
Marty has given his truck a 261 six cylinder (big brother to the famous 235) a 4 barrel carburetor, Howard cam, Fenton cast iron headers, electronic ignition, aluminum radiator, and 'old time' Smitty glass pack mufflers.
The transmission is the very popular 5 speed overdrive once found in Camaros and Firebirds in the 1980's. It's overdrive 5th gear performs just right on the open highway but gives the low speed power Marty wants for in town performance.
Even the differential has 3.55 gearing. This was by adding a complete 1973 Chevrolet Blazer rear end assembly. The rear tires fit the wheel wells just right. No rubbing the fenders on rough roads.
Now retired in Florida, Marty keeps improving his creation. He often thinks about modifications and has added a few additional items to his little ½ ton. He does it in his own way so that it is just right for this type of truck. A few recent additions were adding the 5 speed overdrive transmission and cold air conditioning. (No it doesn't run hot in Florida summers.) Even the doors, firewall, top, floors, and rear cab wall have been sealed with hidden insulation!
This Chevy 1/2 ton may not out run a telegram but the race is close. Marty says 'It idles like a sewing machine and goes like hell. Why would I even consider a V8?' It is 'the' eye catcher at any auto show. Trophies have been many but some stand out more than others.
In Tampa, FL a large monthly cruise night gives a best of show honor at the end of the year. All the monthly winners compete for 'Best of the Best.' Yes, this little yellow pickup received the top award. They don't get better than this!
Marty painted this truck in 1994. Several years ago it received the 'Best Paint' award in a show with hundreds of participants in Northern Florida. How's that for non trailered vehicle that was painted about 10 years ago?
In 1999, at the Carlisle, Pennsylvania 'All Truck Nationals,' this truck received a second place trophy in the older truck class.
If you wish to talk to Marty Bozek about his special truck, the email address is: eng261@aol.com. (You must identify yourself as a truck person so you don't get mixed and discarded with the junk mail.)
