1959 Chevrolet Apache

In 1959, Chevrolet made minor design changes for its popular light-duty Apache pickup truck, which included new interiors and a wider selection of colors to select from. In total, Chevy offered five different exterior colors.

The 'wrap-around' windshield, a truck industry first, was introduced on Chevrolet's pickup trucks in 155. Power steering and power brakes became available for the first time on GM trucks. The electrical system was upgraded to 12 volts, and 1955 was the only year for the 7-foot bed length. The following year, the trucks received a wider hood emblem. 1956 would be the final year for the egg-crate grille. The open grille would be a one-year-only design feature in 1957. The hood became flatter and featured two spears on top, in a similar fashion to the Bel Air.

1958 was the first year for the fleetside bed. Also, the truck was given a significant redesign in the front. All the 1/3-ton trucks were now called Apaches. Four headlights were in the front instead of the prior year's two-light setup.

For 1959, one of the more visual changes was the larger and more ornate hood emblem. The badging on the fenders was also redesigned.

The Apache had ball-gear steering, large brakes, cast spoke or disc wheels, and high-capacity front axles. There were tubeless tires, dual headlamps, and a parallel-design frame. Six and eight-cylinder engines were available, and many other options to accommodate small to large jobs.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2013