1950 Chevrolet 3100 5 Window

Description

Chevy's Advance Design pickups like this 1950 3100 5-window were not only the rugged workhorses that customers expected following World War II, but they were perhaps the first truly stylish trucks. The result was record-breaking sales to a public hungry for new sheetmetal, and today they remain highly-sought collector's items that work equally well with a few modifications.

There's nowhere to hide in a sizzling red pickup, so you had better make sure it's right. With so many of these being nothing more than working-class tools, it's none too easy to find a clean one to restore, and to get one to this level takes a special level of commitment. Someone invested time and money in equally large portions to bring this one to its current spectacular condition, and it fits together better than any truck did in 1950. The five-window body is the most desirable of the bunch, with wrap-around quarter windows that not only improve visibility, but add a cool design element with the curved glass. Subtle improvements include a diamond-plate toolbox and flip-up fuel filler cap in the oak-lined bed and lots of glittering chrome that really dresses up the old pickup.

The gorgeous saddle interior is has been thoroughly updated, adding all the comfort and convenience items you'd expect with a serious dose of style. The original bench seat is long gone, replaced by Strato bench with bucket-like backrests and a center armrest, all wrapped in comfortable saddle vinyl that adds an upscale and elegant touch where it's least expected. The dashboard has been revised with a set of white-faced AutoMeter gauges that fit neatly in the original round pods and monitor all the critical functions without removing too much of the OEM look. The original dash has been retained, and in doing so they were able to preserve the radio grille and use it for the AM/FM/CD stereo head unit, and the A/C controls were neatly installed underneath so nothing had to be cut or seriously modified. There's a late-model tilt steering column with OEM steering wheel and heavy-duty rubber mats ensure you can still use it as a truck.

The engine is a thumping 454 cubic inch V8 with nothing too radical going on, because this truck was built for the road. There's an Edelbrock carb and intake up top, along with a color-matched air cleaner so it looks old-school, and things like the modern serpentine accessory drive, heavy-duty radiator, and dual-reservoir power brakes make it safe and reliable. The front suspension is a Nova sub-frame, complete with power rack-and-pinion steering and disc brakes, so it rides and handles a lot better than the stock setup. You'll also get a lot of attention from the rumbling dual exhaust system that features a pair of minimalist Flowmaster mufflers and chrome tips that peek out from under the rear bumper. It sits just right on a slightly lowered suspension, and with classic 15-inch steel wheels with trim rings and hubcaps, it has an almost factory look. Modern 225/75/15 whitewall radials help with the old-fashioned look but offer up-to-date ride and handling.

Nice trucks like this don't come along every day, and good luck finding a clean one if you're intent on building your own. Why not skip the middle part and just take this one home? Call today!