1955 International Harvester Step Van Converted for Dinner Parties
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International Harvester’s Metro Van debuted in 1938. That's when the manufacturer asked Raymond Loewy, the famed industrial designer, to overhaul its product line. A new generation of outfitters is now discovering the beauty of Loewy’s design - opens in new window or tab..
They are transforming his step vans to all kinds of new recreational uses. The 1955 IH R-120 Metro recently listed on eBay is a gorgeous example.
The seller, Classic Step Vans - opens in new window or tab. of Westminster, Calif., specializes in rebuilding pre-1973 “shorty” step vans. In this case, the cream and orange ’55 Metro step van was built by a third party before Classic Step Vans acquired it.
The seller says:
She fires right up on the first turn of the key every time. The only thing this van needs is a new home.
From Dining to Sleeping
This vintage van is adorable. The highlight of Loewy’s impeccable design is its elongated chrome kidney-shaped grilles with an oversized metallic "IH" badge. The flow of the top-to-bottom slanted fascia rises to a dramatic split windshield.
Sliding side doors up front provide access to seats for the driver and a single passenger. Additional guests use rear barn doors to slide into the wood bench seating.
The builders wisely left the exterior alone. They focused on modifying the interior into an expansive dining area. The space also converts to sleeping arrangements. The van features a propane-fed two-burner stove and a small sink with running water. Sorry, no fridge for now.
The interior walls features rustic wood paneling and deep shag carpet. There is an upholstered and padded passenger seat upfront with the same treatment on the center engine. With the engine cover removed, gearheads can access virtually everything from inside the cab.
Reliable and Flexible
International Harvester has a well-earned reputation for building sturdy trucks. Enthusiasts still value these step vans for their reliability.
This vehicle and its rebuilt factory six-cylinder engine have been road-tested on several 1,000-mile-plus road trips since the rebuild. The 131hp, 220ci engine is standard for all International Harvester three-quarter-ton trucks, including its step vans.
The driver and a single passenger get upfront seating with the engine cover ready to provide access to the drivetrain.
If something should go wrong, eBay off an ample supply of International Harvester spare parts—mechanical and cosmetic. This Metro recently received new tires, new glass, and a brake overhaul.
Repurpose for Play or Business
Seating for up to eight guests around a finished wood table.
Classic step vans can be repurposed for recreational or commercial uses. Remove everything inside to convert this ’55 to a unique ice cream truck - opens in new window or tab., food truck - opens in new window or tab., or delivery van - opens in new window or tab..
International Harvester built cars and trucks starting in 1911 when it developed a forerunner to the modern pickup truck. In the 1960s and 1970s, its popular International Scout and Travelall were precursors to today’s crossover SUVs. In addition, the company developed earth moving equipment, commercial trucks and engines, and motorhomes.
But we haven’t seen a Metro converted for dinner parties—just in time for the #VanLife movement. Your traveling companions can gather around the table for morning coffee, other refreshing beverages, and socializing. Even Raymond Loewy might not have imagined the creative social aspects of his versatile iconic design.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.