International Harvester Fleetstar
The International Harvester Fleetstar is a series of heavy-duty trucks produced between 1962 and 1977 by International Harvester. In 1977, they were replaced by the S-Series. The Fleetstar was produced in both conventional cab and cabover configurations. They were also used as straight trucks as well as tractor and trailer rigs.
Models
1900
2000
2010
2010A
2050
2070
2100
These models of trucks were produced in weight ranges upwards of 26,000 lbs gvwr, and the Fleetstar heavy truck was the 'big brother' to the Loadstar line of trucks (which encompassed International's medium duty lineup during this time). The Fleetstar used the "C" series cab popular on the Loadstar and pickups, and later on got the newer "D" series cab, with some overlap between the two models. There were many Cummins, Detroit Diesel, and International Harvester built engines available, in larger sizes than those of the Loadstar line. (example, 549 Gas IH engines, 6-71 Detroit Diesel engines, 290 Cummins, etc.). Frame rail and axle sizes were generally larger than their smaller cousin, and were of the completely straight design for strength. These frames were typical of International truck frames in general, having large flanges, and great strength. These were simple and straightforward trucks with stubby noses, and short turning radius. Their name is correct in that many were purchased as fleet trucks, and usually they lacked the flash and comfort of the more custom Transtar series. These trucks were reliable, easily fixed and maintained, and offered a low cost heavy truck for those looking in this market area. Generally they were most often spec'd as tractor trailer trucks, but there were some straight trucks also. The construction and heavy duty market also got its version of the Fleetstar with a special Construction package, but these were eclipsed by the smaller Loadstar and larger Paystar series of trucks. Many older Fleetstar trucks got a second lease on life after over the road trucking by being converted to everything from stake beds to van bodies to dump trucks. Quite a few examples are around with over 1 million miles on the odometer.
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