1948 Helms Bakery Divco Truck-A Rare and Collectable Piece of California History

This 1948 Helms truck is arguably the rarest model from Helms Bakery as they were the last specifically made for Helm's Bakery fleet. This is a great opportunity to own a collectible piece of Southern California history as it is believed only 50 Helm's truck still exist. The aluminum/steel body was removed and powered-blasted. Frame and running gear were sand-blasted and painted black enamel.   Body is extremely solid. The original Divco engine turns over by hand and with little work it should run as well as it did when I drove the coach around town. Transmission and rear differential are solid.  This 1948 truck is a rare find and has a unique appearance as Mr. Helms designed it to look like the helm of a tugboat. As for me. this coach customized into a big engine hot rod with its characteristic style and charm would be a big hit at any car show. It has large barn-doors in rear that open extremely wide which makes for many interesting ideas for customizing-I was going to put a large remote controlled-up/down LED screen there for an outdoor movie truck-at a car show it would gather much attention. Rear door lock works and doors open and close perfectly.   I apologize to all my fellow Helm's truck owners who have diligently restored their coaches for my hot rod attitude!! 

The truck has most all of its original parts except the wooden interior drawer pieces which can be fabricated if one decides for a complete restoration. I will put buyer in contact with some of the best Helms truck restoration people that always provide great help and assistance.  As a historical piece. the truck represents one of the classic business ventures in Southern California. These trucks were famous for delivering fresh baked goods from as far north as Central California all the way south to the Mexican border.   As they slowly traveled down neighborhood roads they would blow their well recognized Helm's whistle and children and house wives alike would run to the trucks for fresh loaves of bread. pastries. cream puffs. pies and other baked delicacies.  As a side note. Helms bread was carried on the Apollo 11 capsule. earning it the distinction of being the first bread on the moon. Helms won the contract to supply bread to the 1932 Summer Olympic athletes. and promptly emblazoned their packaging with the branding “Helms Olympic Bread. ” Helm's Bakery. as a restaurant and bakery. is expected to reopen in the Fall of 2013 at the original location.

The truck is licensed in California and has a clear title. Buyer has the option of picking up the truck locally in Torrance. CA or arrange with me for an auto transportation company to deliver truck and I will add cost to invoice.  

See Hemmings' Motor News link below for recent auction sales of 2 restored trucks at $74. 00 and $63. 00.

 http://www. hemmings. com/hcc/stories/2012/03/01/hmn_feature18. html

I have a large collection of Helms Bakery memorabilia that is NOT part of this auction. Buyer of truck has first rights to purchase collection. Many pieces. especially an original driver's hat. are extremely rare and valuable.

Good luck bidding.

Also published at eBay.com

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