SUMMARY

The beneficiary of a frame-off nut-and-bolt restoration
216 cubic inch Thriftmaster 6-cylinder
3-speed manual transmission
Vinyl interior
Era-correct Surf Green & Dusk Gray paint
Hickory bed
Era-correct heater
16-inch steel wheels
10-bolt rear axle

As General Motors' stalwart mass-market brand, Chevrolet has produced years of innovative and desirable offerings that run the gamut from basic compact cars to luxury-lined SUVs. And, when it comes to restoration, dedicated fans of the bowtie division have a rich legacy of preserving unique and exceptionally well-done classics that cause a big stir every time they roll out of the garage. A cool head turner that celebrates the all-American swagger of vintage pickups, this polished 3100 capitalizes on GM's timeless design and Chevy's universal appeal. And, whether you're a diehard Chevrolet fan, an old school truck lover or just a curious buyer who's looking for something a bit different, it's a cool collectible that 'fires on all cylinders'!

BODYWORK/TRIM

Dressed and ready to roll, this mint Chevy has been meticulously rebuilt to preserve all the innate appeal of GM's popular Advance Design aesthetic. Speaking of mint, the truck's expressive body panels have been bathed in a rich coat of Surf Green 2-stage, which is accented with Dusk Gray fenders. Under that retro pigment, an incredibly straight fuselage hangs solid panels that have benefitted from a frame-off nut-and-bolt restoration that, in the words of its restorer, returned the truck to original, assembly line specifications. Naturally, fit is good and finish is great. And overall, this road-ready cruiser carries every indication that its high quality reboot was a well-planned effort.

While its basic shape is certainly appealing, first rate detailing is what makes this pickup really pop. At the front of the truck, a polished grille centers green-trimmed bars and clear parking lamps between GM driving lamps, chrome-trimmed headlights and a guarded bumper. Behind that grille, a Chevrolet-branded hood leads the eye to a spilt windshield, which centers a prominent visor on a 5-window greenhouse. At the sides of that hood, Dusk Gray running boards seat textured steps under chrome mirrors, chrome door handles and a chrome-capped fuel filler. At the back of those boards, a stainless-trimmed hickory bed adds tangible credibility to a classic work truck theme. And at the back of that bed, polished blue dot taillights illuminate a second guarded bumper, which reflects trick bowtie plugs, partially sleeved chains and a "CHEVROLET branded tailgate that's accented with Dusk Gray lettering.

ENGINE

Hoist the truck's domed hood and you'll find a 216 cubic inch 6-cylinder that, according to its 3835253 casting number, originated in 1949. Introduced for use in large platforms, and regarded as one of the all-time great Chevrolet powerplants, the Thriftmaster is a favorite among vintage GM truck buyers because of its simple design, adequate power and excellent durability. A petite Rochester carburetor and old school air cleaner combine with stainless fluid lines, a tagged Delco-Remy generator and Belden EDGE Premium 7mm cables to keep the engine clean and functional. And items like glossy fenders, a correct horn, bold "Thriftmaster" lettering and traditional blue block skin ensure the mill is very impressive to look at.

DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION

Crawling under this classy bowtie reveals a clean frame and straight floorpans that have been coated in a nice layer of Satin Black skin. Power meets the ground through a traditional 3-speed, which twists torque to a driver-friendly axle. Correct leaf springs and drum brakes occupy all four corners of this chassis, mixing rugged road prowess with firm and solid stops. A single-pipe exhaust system begins with a cast iron manifold, progresses through a welded muffler and ends with a polished, bowtie-branded tip. And everything rolls on color-keyed steelies, which turn 6.50-16 Lester whitewalls around polished, red-trimmed hubcaps.

INTERIOR

When you pop this pickup's doors, you'll find a crisp vinyl cockpit that's full of utilitarian charm. A requisite bench seat complements small door panels, a tight headliner and a black floor mat. A "CHEVROLET" branded steering wheel spins around fully restored gauges. And items like warm heat, a Guide traffic light viewer and a retro AM radio make country drives a little more civilized.

Whether it's simple nostalgia or their long list of extremely useful virtues, one thing is certain: trucks NEVER go out of style. And when they're built this well, they seem to never fade away. If you're in the market for something that's classy and cool, don't miss the chance to claim this impressive 3100!