You have a project truck: either a recent model truck, a classic truck you want to restore or a vintage pickup you want to restore and remodel. You find yourself with a large wishlist of parts. That might include major components like engine, interior and frame. Want to make a big dent? Then buy a salvage pickup truck as a parts truck. That way you have parts you can use now – and some you might need in the future.
Why Should I Buy a salvage pickup truck as a parts truck
There are a lot of pickups on the road today. In fact, 18 percent of all cars built in the US are pickups. A significant number get wrecked, stolen, flooded or have mechanical failures each year. Insurance will consider them totaled and sell these trucks at auctions. There are large auction sites like Copart where you can see the trucks that are being auctioned off across the USA. Many of them require a special license to bid on them, but you can sign up at broker sites like SalvageTrucksAuction that allow regular folks to bid on these trucks. You can find the instructions on how to get set up to buy salvage trucks here.
What To Look For in a Salvage Pickup as a Parts Truck
Start with what you need. Do you need the same exact year/model classic truck for your stock rebuild? Do you need a truck with a working engine/transmission for your restomod or rebuild? Could you use a parts truck with a blown engine, but with a nice interior and body for your build? What side on your truck is damaged?
Research Before You Bid
Research the trucks being auctioned, run the VIN number. That will give you a better idea of whether you can meet your needs. A truck salvaged due to mechanical issues could be a great fit if you are sourcing a truck for body panels and bumpers. Front collision damage can often mean things aren’t 100% in an engine, look for rear damage. If your project has frame issues, you might need a parts truck with a clean frame (and rebuildable title). If you need electronics and interior, the last thing you want to do is get a flood-damaged vehicle. But, that flood-damaged truck might be a good fit for body or suspension parts. Use your best judgment, talk to people who repair trucks for a living. Pay for an inspection.
Once you have figured out what you need, and what your budget is, get after that truck! You will find having a good parts truck is just what the doctor ordered.