Fred bought his 1966 GMC Suburban back in 2013 from its third owner, who happens to live in Folsom. He (Freddie) had been looking for one for about two years, and just by word of mouth and through friends, he was able to secure this one. It is very difficult to find one of these in decent shape. Most of them were used for working in the field with companies such as PG&E and the like, and they got pretty banged up by the time they were through with them. This one, however, was previously owned by a school principal who just drove it to and from work and around town. The paint and interior had already been redone before Freddie bought it. However, he did all the invisible stuff – the motor, transmission, suspension, brakes, exhaust, rear end, and complete drivetrain – all the stuff you can’t see where he messed up – Just kidding! He did a wonderful job.
Beneath the hood is a 454 big block engine, which Freddie converted from a straight 6. The hubcaps are from a 1964 Oldsmobile Dynamic – quite rare. The tranny is a 700R4 that was converted from a stock 3 on the tree. Now, here’s the thing:
Freddie lives in La Honda, which is very close to Bonny Doon and not far from Santa Cruz. The only reason he was here today and we were able to see his sweet Suburban is because he had to evacuate from the fires that are currently raging through that area. He is also a drummer and plays in a band called Three on the Tree, as depicted on the doors of his rig. The band plays mostly rockabilly and country music. When he got the orders to evacuate, it was a no brainer for Freddie as to what he would save and take with him – his snare, cymbals, seat for his drum kit and the Suburban. That’s what got him and his drum set here to his friend, Milo’s house, in Rocklin. Milo brought his pickup out to Carmichael as well. The good news is that, as of this morning, Freddie’s place is safe, but he is still not allowed to go back home yet.
Thank you, Freddie for taking the time to share your story with me and bringing your lovely rig out for all of us to enjoy. I told him that maybe one of these days I’ll go out to the Santa Cruz area to hear his band play. He made me promise to bring Pearl down when I do, which I did. Those of you who know me, know who Pearl is 😏.
Story and photographs by Carol Marcopulos
