The International Metro picture thread

[Jim Grammer]

As we have discussed here before, the International Metro line is slowly slipping away from awareness into the mists of time. They were vocational vehicles that for the most part got used up and scrapped. It's up to us to preserve the memories as best we can!

This thread is for images of Metros and Metro related items, along with any historical information you have to contribute. I will start with an AM-150 Metro Standard:



The Metro Lite was an interesting rig, being made of lightweight materials and establishing a styling standard for step-van trucks that continues to this day. The front panels were fiberglass, and the roof and sides were a combination of aluminum and magnesium alloy panels/structural framework:



The Metro Mite used a unitized chassis and initially was powered by an Austin 4 cylinder engine:



Metros were also available in a Walk-In Cab model, very unique and useful:



A 'cowl and chassis' model was also offered:




This shows the difference between the standard doors on the regular Metro and the flat back doors which offered greater access. Unfortunately they make the rounded body style look odd:



Here's a cutaway that shows a lot of detail about the Standard body construction:

[graynak]

Although my process has been painfully slow ... maybe even glacial ... I do have a fair number of pictures and old adverts that i've downloaded in the past...

As for old adverts ... try here:
http://picasaweb.google.com/graynak/OLDIHCMETROADVERTS

and for picts of my beast ... go here:
http://picasaweb.google.com/graynak/1946IHCK1Metro

not a lot new lately, but the dream is indeed still alive

regards

geoff

[Dan Backman]

I don't know if it is because my Father had a Poultry and egg business in the 40-50's, but I am nuts about Metro's. So much so I am having a 1956 S-120(flat back) restored to original. I am a Physical Therapist and furniture builder, so the bodywork is costing me, but I am doing it anyway.
How do I p0st pics?
I have had the truck for a year and am amzed how well it goes down the highway!
Dan Backman

[Dan Backman]

I neglected to add, my Father had Metro trucks for hauling eggs and baby chicks. I use to ride in it anfd my obsession started then.
I just think the body is unique and real cool!
Dan Backman

[geewiz45]

Those are neat trucks. I love seeing these things!

Am I reading picture 36 correctly in Geoff's photo album...You would fill the gas tank from the interior of the truck, right above the engine? Or is the engine cover missing?

[Jim Grammer]

Originally Posted by Dan Backman

I am having a 1956 S-120(flat back) restored to original.

SM-120 I presume

How do I p0st pics?

Hit the 'FAQ' button on the menu bar and read the section about using images in BB posts

Were you in Mike's truck yesterday when I called?

[Rob Peterson]

Nice collection of pics, Jim and Geoff !

Am I reading picture 36 correctly in Geoff's photo album...You would fill the gas tank from the interior of the truck, right above the engine?

That's the radiator cap. Pretty unique, huh! I had no idea that was the location - later Metros had a miniature "hood" on the outside above the grille, where the M E T R O letters are attached (see my avatar). Maybe this change helps keep steam from filling the cab and creating film on the windshield.

[ollie]

Here's what is under the paint on my 57 Metro. (Click link) I'll post some pics of it as it is now in the next few days. Those are solar panels on top, they're off it now so it looks like a toaster again...

[ollie]

Originally Posted by ollie

Here's what is under the paint on my 57 Metro. (Click link) I'll post some pics of it as it is now in the next few days. Those are solar panels on top, they're off it now so it looks like a toaster again...

Here it is today:
with halo of light<-Click link

[Rob Peterson]

Here's some pictures of my Metro along with some notes on the modifications:

http://home.earthlink.net/~rpbp87/metro/index.htm