1960 International Harvester Metro













Vehicle Description
I am most likely going to regret selling this Metro, as it is super solid, complete, runs (see video showing drive and reverse) and it is the desirable "shorty", aka shortest wheelbase, with round back. However, I would like to free up some space on my property and don't have a use for it currently. I have a current registration in my name for ease of changing ownership (CT is a no title state for vehicles 25+ years old).
Grill is in excellent condition, as are the METRO letters and other emblems. The doors open and shut beautifully. After sitting under a tarp for several years, I had the fuel system gone through: gas tank removed and tumbled for 4 hours, new fuel line, and the mechanical fuel pump rebuilt. New tune up: cap, rotor, spark plugs, plug wires, and power wire to coil. Carb idle jet could use a cleaning to improve low idle speed but it runs the way it is. Brand new battery. The tires hold air for transporting, but they are very old so I would replace them before too much road driving. Brakes should also be gone through prior to road use. The pedal is now soft (was not when I parked it) and mechanic suspects the master cylinder is due for a rebuild (kits available for about $60 through RockAuto). Emergency brake works.
This Metro was owned previously by a member of a local hot rod club and was well maintained. I purchased it with the intent of making an ice cream truck, and instead of rear doors, it came with a solid plug (seen in pics and included), but I wanted rear access so I sourced the rusty doors that are currently installed. Unhappy with them, I purchased a whole second Metro to use the doors. However, when it arrived, the longer wheelbase suited my needs better so I restored that one instead. If I were going to keep this Metro, I would reinstall the plug, and maybe make custom hinges for it. I have kept this Metro for about 10 years because I know I will not find another shorty this well-suited to restore, especially in the North East.
The welded patch in the side was done by the previous owner, who told me that it was from a stove (this was used as a camper at one time). I caulked the seam to waterproof it as it was only spot welded. The rear cargo area is an open blank canvas. I can include a set of hubcaps that can be restored, as well as rear bumper brackets and a removed partial bumper. The two front seats are in good condition and are very comfortable, but not original.The flat glass is all in good condition except one of the small rear windows (that are not original). My plan was to remove one anyway and put the service window there. All in all this is a super solid project that would not take much to get back into service; it is in much better condition and much more complete than the longer Metro I chose to restore :)
It is a manual three speed on the column, and it's drivetrain is built for local deliveries; if you are looking for something to cruise at 80 mph on the interstate I would look elsewhere, or plan for some substantial modifications. It is 65 years old, and is sold as is, where is. Please ask any questions before submitting an offer. $200 deposit is due within 24 hours and is non-refundable. I prefer that the remainder is wired, but cash (not check) in person is also okay. If you would like to use a different online service than bank wire, please plan to cover any associated fees. Thank you for your interest. If you are looking for a solid, shorty Metro in the North East, they are extremely hard to come by! I am happy to answer any questions for seriously interested parties, but time wasters and tire kickers please move along! :)
Thanks!