However, the cab isn't completely devoid of style or comfort; a Harley-Davison ultra classic centre console makes the Lokar floor-mounted shifter look good, while a Harley brake pedal gives the cab an extra bad-boy touch.  A leather bench seat from Teez Upholstery rounds out the “au naturel” patina colour scheme.

     That same colour scheme is exactly how the truck was found, although there were a few small details added.  Being in the graphic design business, it was only fitting that some well-planned door paint was in order.  The end result was a 60's-retro advert for “Nitro Speed Shop,” a nod to James' own company, Nitro Graphics.

     All this would make an awesome hot rod on its own, but the biggest attraction is by far the wheels.  The unique rolling stock started with a set of cast-iron hubs from a 1929 International truck, with 2-piece rims.  The entire unit was restored by Winnipeg Wheel, who also adapted it from the pre-depression era design to run on modern technology.     

     To do this took more than a bit of ingenuity, as the original rims were attached directly to the axles using spindle hubs.  In order to make it bolt up to GM disc brakes up front and a GM 10-bolt differential out back, a custom aluminum “donut” was bolted directly onto the vehicle.  Six more mounting bolts were attached to the other side of the donut, bolting onto the wheel in place of the massive original brake drums.

     There's more to be said about this '39 International than there is space in this magazine.  However, Hildebrand's wife summed up the entire vehicle perfectly in one sentence:  “It's just a lot of fun.”