Forum Discussion

Explorer III

Nov 05, 2014

A question about trailering a pick up truck

Howdy, folks! It's been quite a while since we've been without an rv, so I haven't checked in for a while, but it suddenly occurred to me that this might be the place for this question. I've just bought a 1951 Chevy pick up (my first bought truck, which I've always said would be my retirement model-which I am now), and I need to get it 180 miles from mid Illinois back home to southeast Missouri. It's not licensed, so I've been trying to figure out how to get it down here without getting pulled over by the IL or MO highway patrol. Does anyone have any suggestions, whether it be on trailering the truck, special permits to drive the truck, or other ideas as to how I could get this done? It has 5,000 miles on a rebuilt engine, runs great, but has been in a guys garage for 5 years (no long runs, in other words, just around country roads), so I'm not exactly sure what to do. My AAA only covers up to 100 miles, so I'm either going to have to contract it out (low bid of $350), or drive it home. Any body here had any experience with special permits in Illinois or Missouri? Thanks in advance for any and all replies! BTW, I won't be towing the next trailer we buy with this truck. :)

24 Replies

donn0128
Explorer II
Nov 05, 2014
Rent a flat bed from uahul, load it on and drive home.
showme
Explorer III
Nov 05, 2014
Thanks, bnk190! That's sort of what I'm leaning towards. I guess it's just the idea of getting pulled over at all, especially in Illinois, that gives me the creeps. I've heard horror stories of Missourians in Illinois on the highway. I actually drove my bike ('03 Indian Chief) up there to look at it/ buy it. I've got an '83 GMC 3500, but it only has a bumper type ball hitch, and I don't like the idea of pulling a truck on a trailer on those 4 bolts that the bumper is clinging to. Thanks for the advice! You upped my "nerve quotient" there.
bnk190
Explorer
Nov 05, 2014
Since you first bought the truck drive it home. If you get pulled over for no plates show receipt of sale and you are good. No different then buying a car used and driving it home or to get it registered.

Not having trust in the vehicle only leaves the option to trailer it home.
showme
Explorer III
Nov 05, 2014
Um, by my "first bought truck", I meant that it was the model of the first truck I ever bought, when I was 23. I've now had 10, and this will be #11, and I intend to have it until they put me in that hole with my name on it. :)