Buzz
This 1928 Chevrolet pickup features a wooden body design inspired by those created by the York-Hoover Body Corporation. Check out more photos of this timeless truck.By the time the 1928 Chevrolet pickup hit the market, Chevrolet had already spent ten years in the truck industry, surpassing Ford in production as Ford was in the process of transitioning from the Model T to the Model A.
The ultimate goal, much like in the battle for passenger car sales, was to outpace Ford — a rivalry that began in the early 1910s and by the mid-1920s, saw both companies in close competition. Chevrolet's trucks started in 1918 as simple half-ton and one-ton models based on the 490 passenger car, with a 102-inch wheelbase.
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Chevrolet provided the chassis, drivetrain, cowl, fenders, and hood, along with any accessories the customer desired. This model set the standard that continued when the 1928 Chevrolet pickup was introduced.
Known as the National AB, the 1928 Chevrolet light-duty series featured a 107-inch wheelbase and a wide 56-inch track both front and rear. More significantly, four-wheel brakes became standard — mechanical, of course, for that era.
The defining design elements included bullet-style headlight housings, a tall cowl, and deeply contoured fenders.
Mechanically, the four-cylinder engine saw improvements like a higher compression ratio (4.5:1), larger valves, increased valve lift, and a two-piece exhaust manifold. Although horsepower remained at 35, these upgrades enhanced torque and overall responsiveness.
The base National chassis was priced at $495, with several body styles available beyond the pickup, including a sedan delivery, and even specialized versions like a hearse and ambulance by Henney.
The spare tire on the 1928 Chevrolet pickup was mounted around a sliding rear window.Chevrolet had not yet begun building the more traditional bodies, so most of the sales consisted of just the chassis. Dealers would often order bodies separately and complete the trucks for sale, although buyers still had the option to choose a non-standard body maker, which many did.
Collectible Advantages of the 1928 Chevrolet Pickup
- Rarity
- Simple design, making it easier to repair and maintain
- Affordable pricing
Collectible Disadvantages of the 1928 Chevrolet Pickup
- Scarcity of both mechanical components and, to a greater extent, body parts
- Limited interest from collectors may keep prices low
For additional insightful articles and stunning photos of both modern and classic trucks, check out the following resources:
- Classic Trucks
- Ford Trucks
- Consumer Guide Auto Reviews and Prices
