1955 Chevrolet Grumman Olson Step Van (Food Truck Box Truck Shop Van)

Chevrolet Other 1955 Description

1955 Grumman Olson Step Van:

The idea for the first aluminum walk-in van was originated by Walter Heingartner, owner of Kinney Motors Chevrolet in Brooklyn, NY. Heingartner was friends with Jimmy Olson, then Commissioner of the New York State Liquor Authority. Olson had no truck experience, but knowing there were ten independent laundry companies in Brooklyn alone, he saw a market. He knew an aluminum body would be lighter and less prone to corrosion. He also knew someone who could build it, “Jake” Swirbul, one of Grumman’s founders. Grumman had no experience building commercial truck bodies. However, they decided to move forward with the concept and Grumman Aircraft Engineering was scheduled to produce the vehicle beginning in 1939. The concept was shelved due to the onset of WWII. After the war, Olson and three partners formulated J.B.E. Olson Corporation on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn. Construction of the aluminum vehicle began. For its public unveiling, Olson rented the ballroom of the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City and invited Chevrolet dealers from all over the east coast. The vehicle was enthusiastically received and J.B.E. Olson received orders for 450 units, and the Grumman Olson aluminum walk-in van was born. The company grew and prospered over the next many decades. The company purchased the Sturgis, MI facility, its current headquarters, in 1963.

About this truck:

This Chevrolet chassis 1955 Grumman Olson step van would make a great shop truck, food truck, or merch wagon for your business and if you are interested in building a unique marketing vehicle for your company send us a message. The Grumman Olson is made of aluminum so there are never the rust issues you will see with other vans and have a much larger interior and more head room making it a better usable space for those wanting to pack in a lot of equipment. The engine runs great and starts right up. The transmission and clutch work as they should. All of the brakes have been replaced and are in perfect working order. The radiator hoses have been replaced but the water pump still leaks and the drivers seat needs repaired.

Engine: 235 cu. in. I6 Chevrolet

Mileage: 13,181

Exterior Color: Brown

Interior Color: Aluminum

Transmission: 3-Speed Manual

Dimensions:

Overall Length: 209"

Interior Length Behind Seats: 122"

Interior Height in Center: 69"

Interior Width Between Doors: 72"

Interior Width Between Outer Walls: 78"