1956 (Year Sold) GMC 150 3/4 Ton. Custom ordered from the factory in 1955. Body style is 1955 series 2 long bed but was ordered with series 1 GMC straight 6 248, Hydra-Matic 4 Speed Transmission, Marvel Mystery Oil Injector system, standard cab and 6V electrical. The body style was used as a TWA airport line vehicle painted in grey with a factory installed aircraft aluminum shell that has never been removed. Boat rack was added later.
This is a unique, one of a kind truck. Completely original except for the wheels. My uncle owned a 6 V 33‘ 1953 Spartanette Tandem trailer (which I still own) and ordered this truck as a custom towing vehicle. He had to match the 6V electrical and opted for the series 1 “tried and true” GMC Straight 6 248 instead of 12v Pontiac engine options of the 1955 series 2. He also opted for the Hydra-Matic 4 speed automatic transmission because of the gear ratio for towing. He also added the Marvel Mystery Oil injector system. The factory installed aluminum shell has never been off the truck and has kept the original bed in great condition. The original wheels were split rim and I could not find anyone that would put new tires on them. I have the original wheels and GMC Hubcaps. Hubcaps are in good shape with minimal rust on the chrome.
In 2016, I trusted the truck to Bill McAnnly Racing in Roseville CA for mechanical repairs. The engine and transmission were rebuilt, complete brake system rebuild and new exhaust system. As you can imagine, there were numerous other small repairs needed as well. Finally completed and picked up in November of 2017. Less than 200 miles since the rebuild. Passed CHP Light and Brake inspection.
Exterior is original. The patina has a lot of character. Some areas of rust, fender above lights, bottom of door panels and light rust overall. All emblems intact and the chrome is in decent shape with minor rust areas. This truck is a beast from the front and the chrome is blinding in the sunlight. Spare tire mounts on both sides.
Interior is original except for a seat cover. Headliner is gone, dash has some surface rust, most of the gauges appear to be functional. Parking brake is the shoe type around the drive shaft. The shoes have been replaced. Parking brake must be used as there is no PARK pin.
