Here we have a genuine Texas barn find, rescued from an out building on a ranch in Corsicana, Texas.
This 1949 Chevy 3100 half ton short bed pickup is about as original as they come. With the exception of the wheels and tires everything else is as it came from the factory; 216 cubic inch straight six cylinder engine, three on the tree manual transmission, ladder frame, straight axle leaf spring and lever shock suspension; drum brakes on six lug hubs, front and rear. Six volt electrics.
After World War ll, GM's Chevrolet Division rolled out the all new lineup of "Advanced Design" pickups in 1947 that would become perennial best sellers until their replacement in 1956. If you're a baby boomer in Middle America its likely your grandparents on one side of the family or the other or both owned one of these workhorses. They would soon become sought after foundations for hot rods and customs; a trend that continues to this day.
This old girl had to be dragged up the trailer, but since then she has received the TLC needed to make her roadworthy once again. The motor got new fluids, hoses and belts. A replacement thermostat and rebuild of her original Carter one barrel carburetor accompanied by a new gas tank, fuel lines and filter. The electrical system was rehabilitated and now with a fresh 6-volt battery all the lights and horn are working again. Underneath she got new brake wheel cylinders and a master cylinder to ensure she stops safely. Fresh motor and transmission mounts and some brand new white wall tires finished the job.
With a push of the starter pedal, the truck starts up easy and idles calmly, almost silently (choke and throttle controls work smoothly). The transmission and clutch engage perfectly. Acceleration is good and the brakes work well, for 1949 brakes. Steering is responsive. She runs cool in the Texas heat with good oil pressure. A cooling system pressure test and an engine compression test did not raise any red flags. The glass is all good and the windows roll up and down and the air vents open and close easily. The speedometer needle is broken. Both front and rear windows could benefit from fresh seals. The bumpers and some of the lenses are new. There is a heater under the dash that has not been tested or connected. Wiper motor works, but currently missing wiper arms. The seat and door cards are in great shape and a new headliner and floor mat has been fitted.
The wood bed is showing its age but is still solid. Bed walls are clean and the tailgate opens freely. The paint is developing a nice patina; likely repainted a time or two over the last 71 years. The frame is rust free; the body has no rot whatsoever.
On the road, she behaves with predictability. On the highway she won't lead the pack but she will get you there and back without too much drama. We can't predict what the future holds for this very original Chevy, our mission was to preserve its originality. Mission accomplished.
The 1949 Chevy 3100 is offered for sale as is where is out of Rowlett, Texas. Lowballers, scammer and sales assistants need not apply. If the listing is up the truck is still for sale. Call, text or reply.
