Look what someone decided to start today: an old International 4070, possibly a TransStar. Estimated to have been parked for 30 or 40 years, this Cab Over Engine (COE) truck serves as a testament to the passage of time.
A large oak tree grew right around the frame, demonstrating years of sitting. Trying to bring this relic back to life revealed the harsh realities of vehicular neglect.
Specification in Plain Language
Underneath the worn exterior sat a Cummins engine, likely a small 250 horsepower unit. Rigged with a Hendrickson suspension, the truck uses 10:20 tires. Power shifts through a 13 speed RTO transmission. Finding the oil stick revealed the oil was “way over full,” even though the truck was parked downhill.
Cabovers were popular in the local area; for example, the Pool Truck Line in Evergreen, Alabama, operated maybe over a thousand of these International cabovers at one time. However, their usefulness waned in the early 1990s. Changes to bridge and length laws allowed people to switch to conventional cabs, which offered a much smoother ride. Consequently, these cabovers became “worthless”.
Fun Facts
Critters had definitely been living in the cab. Rats brought pecans for food, contributing to the mess. Finding an oak snake crawling in the area provided a scare. Designers faced criticism for the layout: they placed the clutch rod right next to the oil filler tube, complicating the removal of the starter. Getting the cab up was hard work because it was “froze up” from sitting too long.
Conclusion
Hardworking owners often leave such equipment to sit and rot, sparking questions about why people store things they cannot get rid of. Even after trying 24 volt power to wake up the starter, the engine was confirmed locked up. Sadly, the old 4070 was just too far gone. Remember: don’t be wily, share your stories and hit subscribe.
-
Watch a rare 1964 Mack M18 off-road truck roar back to life after decades of rest. A story of passion, patience, and raw mechanical power.