Archive, Industry News

Layers of history at Echuca

Scott Hough's restored 1954 International ARC160 was one of many heritage trucks on display at Echuca on September 11 and 12

By Tamara Whitsed |
September 15, 2010

Scott Hough was proud to display his 1954 International ARC160 at the American Iron Heritage Truck Display in Echuca, Victoria, on September 11 and 12.

At first glance Scott’s truck looks like a rust bucket in the early stages of restoration. But it is actually a finished project and Scott is thrilled with the result.

His goal was to preserve the clues to the truck’s 56-year history hidden in its many layers of paint.

He achieved this by removing moss with a kitchen scourer, and then applying a coat of clear two-pack. This has preserved the names of former owners including Travancore, G Davies and Cockeri on the doors.

Scott says other truck collectors either love or hate his International, and many don’t understand what he is trying to achieve.

His truck is certainly not as glamorous as the sparkling Internationals, Macks, Kenworths, Whites, Fords, Dodges, Chevs, Western Stars and Peterbilts displayed at Echuca.

But a close inspection reveals Scott has devoted about 400 hours and $14,000 to the restoration. It has air conditioning, suspension seats, stereo, GPS, a 345 V8 International motor and an overdrive 5-speed gearbox from a Butterbox ACCO.

“On the road it’s as good to drive as a new car,” says Scott who lives at Kilmore, Victoria.

The Echuca event is organised annually by the Australian Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society (ATHS). “It’s about the people and members and what they bring to the show,” says ATHS president Gavin Spence.

He was especially glad to see ATHS treasurer, Glenn Newlyn. “He’s a great ambassador for our club. He’s taken ill but managed to make it for the show.”

Gavin says ‘overstated’ media reports about flooding at Echuca reduced the number of trucks on display to around 75, and resulted in a 40 percent drop in attendance.

“I think they missed a great time. There was warm weather on the Saturday, and a great array of antique trucks.”

A full report of the American Iron Heritage Truck Display will be in the October issue of Owner//Driver.

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