A Unique Customization Job: A Nike-Themed Yard Truck Found in a Self-Service Yard in Charlotte, North Carolina
Imagine the scene: you and your coworkers are bored at work, surrounded by cans of red and white latex paint, with a beater yard truck sitting right next to you. What would you do? Well, it seems that in one self-service yard in Charlotte, North Carolina, someone decided to get creative and give the truck a Nike-themed customization.
Despite its worn appearance, it’s clear that this truck has seen its fair share of hard work. The presence of a light bar on the roof and a couple of cheap UHF antennas suggests that it was used at construction sites or a big industrial facility. Unfortunately, the odometer only has five digits, so we can’t determine the exact mileage. However, given its condition, it wouldn’t be surprising if it had traveled over 200,000 miles during its career.
Originally painted in “Twilight Blue Metallic,” this truck received a unique makeover with a thick layer of red house paint, meticulously applied with a brush. But the customization didn’t stop there. The Nike “Just Do It” theme was added using white house paint. It’s interesting to note that Nike adopted this iconic slogan in 1988, after being inspired by the last words of Gary Gilmore, a convicted murderer about to be executed. This truck is a testament to the dedication and creativity of its previous owner.
The attention to detail extends to the interior of the truck. Even the air fresheners are color-matched to complement the overall theme. It’s clear that someone put a lot of effort into making this truck truly stand out.
Taking a closer look at its specifications, we find that this truck was built at Louisville Assembly in November of 1988. It is a short-wheelbase rear-wheel-drive Styleside model. Under the hood, it boasts a 2.3-liter “Pinto” four-cylinder engine, delivering 100 horsepower and 133 pound-feet of torque. The transmission is a basic five-speed manual.
This truck belongs to the first generation of Rangers, which replaced the Mazda-built Courier in 1983 and continued production until 1992. While the second-generation Ranger retained the original chassis, its body became less influenced by its larger F-Series sibling.
Sadly, this unique yard truck is destined for the crusher, like many work trucks before it. However, its Nike-themed customization will surely live on as a testament to the creativity and individuality of its previous owner.
In conclusion, stumbling upon this Nike-themed yard truck in a self-service yard in Charlotte, North Carolina is a true testament to human creativity and the ability to turn something ordinary into something extraordinary. It reflects the dedication and attention to detail that someone put into giving this truck a one-of-a-kind look. While it may be destined to be recycled, this truck’s unique paint job will serve as a lasting symbol of individuality and self-expression.
