57 JAAR LATER
GOBO started its operations in 1963 with the acquisition of GEBO (GEbroeders BOuts in Bree), initially with 3 trucks. That same year, the first new tractor was purchased – a FIAT 682 T2, imported by Vanhool. Sitting in the passenger seat at the time was Marc Gobyn, the second-generation owner of GOBO, who was just 13 years old.
It was Marc’s great dream to bring such a Fiat back into the GOBO fleet and add it to the collection of vintage vehicles. After an 8-year search, he finally found one. The others still available in Italy and other continents all had the steering wheel on the right-hand side. In the end, it wasn’t a 682 T2, but a 643 EP from 1968, which had the same cabin.
After months of hard work, our new pride and joy is finished!
Frans Samyn was responsible for the revision of the engine and drivetrain, while our super mechanics Danny Simenon, Ricardo Corsius, Wim Meers, and Jeffrey Nijs handled the disassembly, welding, electrical work, and assembly. The ultimate artist for this gem was our Joseph Corsius. He recreated the entire bodywork, filling, sanding, and most notably, took care of the impeccable spray painting. Guys, it’s truly TOP what you have achieved!
The woodwork comes from Interieur Moors in Riemst, De Geet from Bilzen provided the upholstery, Publi Sor from Maaseik handled the lettering, and Banden De Condé worked hard to fit the new tires onto the Trilex rims. And of course, many other suppliers contributed to this effort.