Frame Off Restored 3100 Pickup 216 Inline Six 3 Speed Manual

SUMMARY

* Fresh frame-off restoration
* Correct 216 cubic inch Thriftmaster 6-cylinder
* Correct Saginaw 3-speed manual transmission
* Equipped with an era-correct heater
* Era-correct Horizon Blue paint / Yellow pinstripes
* Painted wood bed
* 16-inch steel wheels
* 6-volt electrical system

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The vast majority of classic trucks that attend magazine shoots and national shows sport lists of modifications that are longer than the third volume of War and Peace. But, while those extensively customized rigs are always cool to look at, this 1952 Chevrolet 3100 manages to carry the same level of appeal without any major gimmicks. That's because, as we've stated numerous times, old school pickups are timeless slices of Americana that'll likely never go out of style. The recipient of a professional, frame-off restoration, this Chevy exhibits a level of quality that was simply unobtainable on 1940s assembly lines. Pairing a correct 216 cubic inch 6-cylinder with a correct Saginaw 3-speed and sublime Horizon Blue paint, it's sure to turn heads. And, if you're in the market for some sweet collector metal that can be driven, shown and fully enjoyed, it's exactly the ride you've been looking for!

BODYWORK/TRIM

Fresh out of the restoration shop, this mint Chevy has been meticulously rebuilt to preserve all the innate appeal of GM's popular Advance Design aesthetic. The truck's expressive body panels have been bathed in a rich coat of Horizon Blue 2-stage and accented with tasteful yellow pin stripes. Under that retro pigment, an incredibly straight fuselage hangs solid panels that, with the exception of a thorough massage during the aforementioned reboot, appear to have led a quiet, drama-free existence. Those massaged panels feature better-than-factory alignment and, when opened and closed, sound solid and function exceptionally well. And that functional body's combination of excellent reflections and Kansas-flat surfaces suggest many labor-intensive hours were spent exacting top-notch finish work.

While its basic shape is certainly appealing, first rate detailing is what makes this pickup really pop. At the front of the truck, a Horizon Blue grille centers gray-trimmed bars between clean halogen headlights and a glossy gray bumper. Behind that grille, a Chevrolet-branded hood leads the eye to a spilt windshield, which fronts a 3-window greenhouse. At the sides of that hood, black running boards combine with chrome door handles, black mirrors and a color-keyed fuel filler to create a simple, attractive profile. At the back of those boards, a fully painted bed adds tangible credibility to a classic work truck theme. And at the back of that bed, a stamped tailgate reflects black taillights, sleeved chains and a second gray bumper.

ENGINE

Hoist the truck's domed hood and you'll find a 216 cubic inch inline 6-cylinder that's branded with a correct “KAA” assembly stamp. 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 a tagged Delco-Remy starter, a tagged Delco-Remy generator, a beefy radiator and 6-volt Delco-Remy electricals to keep the engine clean and functional. And items like satin fenders, a glossy horn, bold “Thriftmaster” lettering, a bright oil canister and traditional gray 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 paint. Power is put to the ground through a traditional Saginaw 3-speed, which hangs a correct 591907 casting number in front of a driver-friendly rear end. 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, which is wired to a large muffler, runs the whole length of the truck. And everything rolls on familiar steel wheels, which turn 6.50-16 BF Goodrich Silvertown 4-plys around blue paint, yellow pinstripes and hand- lettered Chevrolet hubcaps.

INTERIOR

When you pop this pickup's doors, you'll find a crisp Burgundy cockpit that's full of utilitarian charm. A vinyl 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 warm heat and a retro AM radio make country drives a little more civilized.

OUR SALE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTATION

* A vintage marketing brochure
* A vintage Operator's Manual

If you're looking for a unique classic that mixes a professional restoration with unmatched style and unparalleled fun, this truck deserves your full attention. It's spectacular from every angle. It plays to nostalgia and Americana that everyone can appreciate. And it's a highly drivable piece that actually FEELS like vintage hardware. So, what are you waiting for? Grab the phone, park this Chevy in your garage and get ready for years of carefree cruising!