Almost a century ago, the Detroit Industrial Vehicle Company was started, which was quickly renamed to Divco, for short. This early American icon was a common sight in suburban neighborhoods as ice cream trucks, milk delivery vans, and more. But this Divco delivery truck we spotted at SEMA this year is no longer the docile fleet truck it once was, but an LS-powered milk delivery truck with the perfect patina.
From Milk Runs To Muscle
Most likely, this Divco delivery truck came with a 162-cubic-inch L-head inline-four that was rated at 37.5 horsepower. Perfect for reliable neighborhood delivery duty at speeds below 30 miles per hour. But the four-banger is long gone, and in its place is a 5.3-liter LS backed by a 4L60E four-speed automatic. The 5.3 is fueled and controlled by Fitech’s Ultimate Revel EFI system with a low-profile intake and hidden-coil valve covers for a clean look.
Custom Chassis And Suspension Work
Underneath the 1957 sheet metal is the original chassis that has been heavily modified by Vintage Tin Customs. Narrowed four inches in the front and six inches in the rear, the frame rides on an Accuair air ride system and a custom four-link suspension attached to a 14-bolt GM axle that’s been narrowed 13 inches to tuck underneath the original body with American Force Reactor dually wheels measuring 22×8.5-inches with 235/35R22 tires. Up front, a 2020 Mustang rack and pinion was adapted to handle steering duty, along with hydroboost brakes with a Volvo electric pump.
While Fitech handles electrics for the powertrain, a Painless chassis harness controls all other electrics on this 1957 Divco delivery truck. The interior was left with most of its original patina intact aside from some custom sheetmetal paneling and bomber-style seats, blue-faced vintage-styled gauges, and a billet aluminum steering wheel.
Patina And Craftsmanship Combined
This 1957 Divco delivery truck is the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern performance. It’s a patina-covered reminder of America’s delivery days brought roaring back to life with LS power. Its meticulous craftsmanship, clever engineering, and attention to detail make it far more than a novelty build; it’s a rolling showcase of how classic utility vehicles can be reimagined for today’s hot rod scene while still honoring their humble roots.
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