Highlights
- Ultra rare 1930's International Harvester D-15 truck
- Probably unique in the UK, imported from Canada in 2015
- Comprehensively restored in 1978 at a cost of over $10,000
- Sympathetically upgraded with 12-volt electrics and improved lighting
- Proven reliability - completed a 350-mile journey to Newark Tractor Show with a tractor load
The Appeal
First founded all the way back in 1902, International Harvester specialised in tractors, ploughs and...well, harvesters. The company's impressive build quality and rugged range of side-valve engines made for perfect commercial road use, too, and soon gained a very real reputation amongst rural and business clients alike.
Built from 1937-1940, the D-15 model stake farm truck was unusual in the fact it took a little bit of art deco styling under its wing, with its round-nosed profile becoming a common sight across much of the American midwest. They're a deeply handsome truck, right down to the unusual deco instrument surround, and with their hefty fixed-chassis bay, they were capable of carrying everything from eggs to lumber.
Previously based in Canada, this handsome example reached British soil in 2015, and became very well known in commercial enthusiast circles. During its time in the English climate, it's taken part in the HCVS London-Brighton run, and in 2021 was driven 350 miles to the Newark Tractor Show - while carrying a small International Farmall Tractor, to boot.
Purchased from Car and Classic in 2023, it's now ready and waiting for its lucky new owner.
Previously based in Canada, this handsome example reached British soil in 2015, and became very well known in commercial enthusiast circles. During its time in the English climate, it's taken part in the HCVS London-Brighton run, and in 2021 was driven 350 miles to the Newark Tractor Show - while carrying a small International Farmall Tractor, to boot.
Purchased from Car and Classic in 2023, it's now ready and waiting for its lucky new owner.
History and Paperwork
- First registered on 1st June 1939 in Canada
- UK registered on 23rd June 2015
- Built by International Harvester Company, Hamilton, Ontario
- Spent much of its life in Alberta, passing through three family ownerships
- Completely restored to original specification in 1978 (at 53,000 miles) at a cost exceeding $10,000
- Became a museum piece until 1997
- Current owner imported it from Vancouver via the Panama Canal to Tilbury Docks in March 2015
- Sold via Car & Classic in 2023
- Comprehensive history folder including NOVA import paperwork, DVLA registration documentation
- Mechanical specifications sheet included
- Various parts invoices, photos and magazine articles
- MOT exempt due to age
- Vendor could organise transport at the buyers expense
The Condition
- Maroon and black paintwork generally presents well and has been fully repainted
- Pleasing chrome work and badges
- Original steering wheel and period gauges/switches reported to operate correctly
- Extended mirrors for improved visibility
- Wooden flatbed completely renewed in oak
- Wheels have been painted
- Strong and solid chassis and structure with no significant rust
- Dual rear wheel conversion by the current owner
- Original specification cab presents in good condition
- Comfortable restored bench seat with storage compartment beneath
- New headlining and nice rubber floor covering
The Mechanics
- 3,472 cc / 213 cu in Green Diamond, straight-six, flathead, side-valve petrol engine
- 4-speed non-synchro gearbox
- Engine bay is in good overall order
- New carb fitted and in need of tuning
- Dynator alternator conversion
- Electric fuel pump
- New carburettor but most likely need tuning
- New old stock distributor
- Fuel tank internally treated with POR15
- Renewed front and rear brake shoes with good quality riveted linings by Orca
- Replacement Dave Mac balanced prop shaft
- Hand-made stainless steel exhaust with slight leak from exhaust manifold
- Single wiper arrangement "could be improved"
- Comfortable cruising speed of 40 mph with direct steering and no wander
- Clutch and gearbox function well, though gearbox is described as a little rattly in first and second
- Brake adjusters will need some attention
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.
