Pickup trucks are the hot ticket. It seems like every Chevy pickup
from the '40s through '80s is being swept up at a rapid pace. With
a ton of aftermarket support, early Chevrolets are among the
easiest to modify to accept different chassis, making them ride
better than the original version. Every generation, from Boomers to
Millenials, recognizes the versatility of a pickup.
This 1951 Chevy 3100 is a terrific example of what makes them so
popular, starting with the chassis. This one is well executed and
sports a front clip grafted from a later-model Camaro to provide
power steering and coilover suspension upfront. No longer does a
'50s pickup have to handle like a dump truck!
The bodywork and virtually flawless new Graphite-Metallic Black
paint on this build are superb. Looking at the doors and hood, an
astute enthusiast will notice they line up better than most did
from the factory. Additionally, to show the level of bodywork
detail, the radio antenna was frenched into the fender. Someone
expertly laid the paint on this truck, which is not always easy to
say with all the old trucks' angles and crevices.
The exterior brightwork shows well despite it being a mixture of
restored and new. The grille appears original and looks great for
its age. The front bumper could use a re-chrome or replacement to
be show quality. Meanwhile, brand-new Billet Specialties wheels
adorn all four corners providing just the right amount of bling
against the black metallic paint. The bed is a walnut-stained oak
with stainless dividers and looks fantastic. A polished aftermarket
gas cap leads to the large tank hidden below. The inside walls of
the bed have been sprayed with Line-X to protect them from sliding
cargo.
The engine bay is tidy, but the engine itself could be made even
better with a little extra cosmetic TLC from the new owner to be
100-percent show-worthy. A beautiful finned air cleaner sits on top
of an Edelbrock carb with an Offenhauser intake on the lopey
small-block 305 from a Camaro. Some touch-up paint and a little
elbow grease would easily freshen the engine's look. The engine is
mated to a Turbo 400 automatic transmission, coupled to a 10-bolt
rearend. Power braking is achieved through a CPP master cylinder
with front-disc brakes and rear drums.
Seeing you'll spend the majority of time inside the truck, this is
where this one shines. A brand-new, one-piece windshield and billet
rearview mirror are excellent upgrades. TMI vinyl and suede black
bucket seats with red stitching are incredibly comfortable. A
matching custom console splits them with two cup holders and
storage underneath. Brand-new Classic Instruments replica
speedometer, tach, clock, and integrated gauge cluster monitor the
remaining engine vitals. A RetroSound radio sits in the stock
location with Pioneer speakers in the doors. The chrome door cranks
appear to be newly added reproductions. The full carpet, leather
headliner, and felt door cards are a nice upgrade for the new owner
to enjoy.
A fresh build, with its outstanding interior, fresh repaint, and
new Billet Specialties wheels, this truck is ready to hit the
street with a new owner to either just be enjoyed or taken to the
show circuit. Come by the Art & Speed showroom to check out this
beautiful '51 Chevy 3100; it's sure to go quickly!
MECHANICAL
1980 305ci Camaro Engine
Turbo 400 Automatic Transmission
10-Bolt Rearend
Dual Exhaust Tucked To Exit In Front Of Rear Tires
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