Safari Rat A Unique 1943 International Pickup that Roars with Character

In the realm of classic car enthusiasts, Leon Zeelie stands out as a man who always seeks the extraordinary. When an intriguing Gumtree ad flashed before his eyes, featuring a 1943 International, Leon's heart skipped a beat. Little did he know, this vintage gem would soon become his prized possession, taking the form of the Safari Rat. This is the story of a unique transformation and the camaraderie that brought this 1943 International back to life.

The Hunt for the Safari Rat:
Leon's journey with the Safari Rat began with a serendipitous encounter. After spotting the elusive ad, fate led him to Christo van Eeden, the current custodian of the 43 International Safari Rat. Months later, a twist of destiny presented Leon with the opportunity to acquire the pickup for himself, setting the stage for a one-of-a-kind project.

The Build Story:
Christo van Eeden, a master craftsman based in Noordhoek, took on the challenge of bringing the Safari Rat to life. The 1943 International's cab was discovered in a farm field in Bloemfontein, minimizing rust concerns and providing a charming patina. The donor vehicle, a 1982 Nissan Safari, became the foundation for this three-year-long restoration journey.

The Details That Make a Rat:
Every inch of the Safari Rat exudes character and meticulous craftsmanship. The bonnet, sourced from a 1939 Ford sedan, was skillfully modified to fit. The grill, a shortened version of a 30s Diamond T truck, adds a touch of nostalgia. The hood ornament, a flea market find from a Pontiac, and the rear light holders crafted from Pistons and Conrods further elevate the uniqueness of this creation.

Under the Hood:
The heart of the Safari Rat lies in a 2.8 inline-6 motor sourced from the Nissan Safari donor. A testament to its robust nature, the motor required minimal modifications, with only the head and carburetor receiving attention. Equipped with Weber 40 twin-barrel carbs, reminiscent of those used in Maserati/Ferrari Dinofancy, the Safari Rat's roar is both powerful and refined.

The Interior Marvel:
Inside the Safari Rat, the interior is a blend of creativity and resourcefulness. Metalwork from Christo's own stock, adorned with old number plates and metal cups, forms the foundation. The seats, taken from the Safari, boast a new look with cowprint upholstery. The customized Safari steering wheel, featuring a teethed sprocket as the horn ring, adds a final touch to this masterpiece.

Acknowledgments and Gratitude:
In the world of custom builds, collaboration is key. Leon Zeelie expresses his gratitude to the mastermind behind the Safari Rat, Christo van Eeden. Additionally, he extends thanks to Master Cams, Headzone, Rowland Manifolds, Hans Marshall, and Lionel Moses for their contributions to this exceptional project.

The Safari Rat stands as a testament to the passion and ingenuity that defines the world of classic car customization. Leon Zeelie's journey from spotting an ad to becoming the proud owner of this 1943 International is a story of chance encounters, shared dreams, and the artistry of a master builder. As the Safari Rat now serves as a daily driver for Leon's home renovation business, it continues to turn heads, leaving an indelible mark on the road and in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts.