Introduction:
The world of junkyards is filled with ordinary cars and trucks, but sometimes unexpected treasures can be found among the wreckage. From ice cream trucks to TV stars, the vehicles in these boneyards have stories to tell. In this article, we’ll explore an iconic piece of American automotive history that was discovered in a junkyard near Monterey, California. This gem is a Grumman Olson delivery truck, a vehicle that was born out of the aircraft industry and went on to become a familiar sight on the roads of America. Let’s dive into the history of this unique vehicle and uncover the stories behind its creation and use over the years.
1. The History of Grumman Olson
Grumman Olson was founded as a result of the Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation’s foray into building delivery trucks in 1946. With a background in aircraft manufacturing, Grumman brought its expertise in aluminum construction to the world of truck production. The company’s history of building aircraft for the United States Navy during World War II played a significant role in shaping the design and construction of its delivery trucks.
2. The Kargo King and Kurbside Models
The Kargo King delivery truck, with its lightweight aluminum body mounted on a Chevrolet chassis, was the first of Grumman Olson’s offerings. This design was carried forward with the introduction of the Kurbside delivery truck in 1948. These trucks quickly gained popularity, with assembly plants popping up across the country to meet the demand.
3. Frito-Lay Kurbside Krew Kabs
One of the most famous buyers of Grumman Olson trucks was the United Parcel Service, but it was the Frito-Lay Kurbside Krew Kabs that captured the imagination of many Americans. These trucks, accompanied by matching Kubemaster trailers, were an iconic sight on the highways of the 1970s and 1980s. Loaded with a variety of Frito-Lay snacks, they delivered these treats to retail establishments across the country.
4. Features and Design
The Grumman Olson trucks, including the Kurbside model, were built for functionality. With a small-block Chevrolet V8 engine and industrial-grade components, these trucks were durable and reliable workhorses. The design of the truck, with a door on the curb side to ensure driver safety, was practical and efficient for the delivery drivers.
5. Legacy and Modern-Day Successor
While the original Kurbside delivery trucks may be a thing of the past, the legacy of Grumman Olson lives on through its descendant, Morgan Olson. Today, Morgan Olson continues to produce delivery vans that carry on the tradition of quality and durability established by Grumman Olson decades ago. Despite the changes in the automotive industry, the influence of Grumman Olson’s aircraft heritage can still be seen in the vehicles that roll off the production line today.
In conclusion, the Grumman Olson delivery trucks, exemplified by the Kurbside model, hold a unique place in American automotive history. From their aircraft-inspired construction to their iconic role in delivering snacks across the country, these trucks have left a lasting impact on the industry. As we continue to explore the world of automotive junkyards, we may stumble upon more hidden gems like the Grumman Olson truck, each with a story to tell about the past and the evolution of transportation.