Vehicle Description
Following World War II, General Motors made a full commitment to
the civilian truck market with the introduction of the "Advance
Design" line of light and medium-duty trucks. The light truck
market in America was rapidly expanding, and GM was quick to
recognize the critical importance of his growing segment. They
wasted little time positioning themselves at the forefront of truck
design. With their cutting-edge styling and proven, bulletproof
drivetrains, the Advance Design series cemented Chevrolet's
position as a leader in the light truck business. One of the
critical attributes of the new Advance Design line was the
incorporation of many carlike features that allowed the trucks to
be more user-friendly for the average consumer. A new rear-hinged
one-piece hood made the engine more accessible for service, the
door hinges were hidden in the body for a smooth, carlike look, and
the cab design focused on comfort and ease of operation. The
full-width bench seat was a new feature, with adjustments that
raised the bench as it got closer to the wheel, to aid shorter
drivers in seeing over the dash. On the business end, a wider,
stronger bed and tougher tailgate improved durability and capacity.
For motivation, Chevrolet relied on the tried and tested Stovebolt
overhead-valve inline-six. Trucks built before 1954 utilized the
216 cubic-inch version, paired with a 3-speed synchromesh
transmission. The Stovebolt six is legendary for its dependability,
and while it wouldn't win many drag races in standard form, it was
more than capable of moving the 3100 along with ease, even with a
full payload. General Motors did a superb job in bringing the light
truck to the general market, and the Advance Design series remained
popular from its introduction in 1947 until the Task Force trucks
replaced them in 1955. America's love affair with the pickup hardly
shows signs of slowing, and these handsome trucks remain highly
collectible today. This 1953 Chevy 3100 Five-Window is a lovely
example of GM's iconic Advance Design pickup line. This truck
presents in a handsome shade of blue over a gray and oxblood red
interior and benefits from a well-maintained, high-quality
restoration, outfitted with numerous period accessories. This truck
features the desirable Deluxe-trim cab with optional rear quarter
windows, a heater, and a full bench seat. Exterior features include
fog lights, deluxe wheel trim rings, exterior sun visor, dual
outside mirrors, and wood bed rails. The brightwork and chrome are
all in very good order, appearing very well-restored and maintained
in fine condition since. The body panels are straight and
well-aligned, and the paintwork overall quite attractive, with just
a few superficial imperfections acquired through time and
enjoyment. While the Advance Design pickups aimed to be more
carlike in many ways, the cab was still very much utilitarian in
purpose. Our truck features correct, hard-wearing heavy-grain vinyl
upholstery, and the floors lined with durable rubber mats for easy
cleanup. Equipment is limited to a heater, vent windows, and a
chrome-trimmed dash panel, however, the cab is comfortable and easy
to access with superb visibility. Seat upholstery, door panels, and
floor liners are all in excellent condition and reflect this
truck's high-quality restoration. Under the hood sits the robust
Thriftmaster overhead-valve inline-six. GM's humble "Stovebolt"
engines served as the workhorse for everything from trucks and
buses to passenger cars (even the Corvette) for an astonishing 61
years in North America. The engine bay in our subject 3100 presents
in good order, finished in the correct medium gray shade. It shows
signs of consistent use and maintenance, while also displaying
appealing levels of detail with the proper oil-bath air cleaner and
period-correct decals and labels. The undercarriage is similarly
tidy, appearing clean and well-maintained while showing signs of
regular use on the road. This desirable Chevrolet 3100 is a
handsome period piece that would make an ideal promotional tool for
a business or farm, or a welcome addition to a light truck
enthusiast's collection. Finished in attractive colors and
presented with a well maintained, high-quality restoration, this
Chevy 3100 is sure to delight its next caretaker for years to come.
Offers welcome and trades considered