If you’re planning to set out on a project build, commencing the process with a rock-solid foundation is always an advantage. That is the story behind this 1953 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup. The seller created a unique custom build from a vehicle featuring its original sheetmetal. It presents superbly, and the mechanical upgrades should ensure it offers performance that matches its good looks. With the work recently completed, they have decided it needs a new home. You will find the 3100 listed for sale here on eBay in Lincoln, California. Frantic bidding has pushed the price to $17,700, although that figure is short of the reserve.

The 1953 model year was one of evolution for Chevrolet’s Advance Design commercial range, with an entirely new model only two years away. The seller says that this vehicle was an old farm truck that its previous owners had treated with respect. It features its original panels and steel as it rolled off the line, with no rust or signs of abuse. After ensuring the panels were straight, they applied fresh green paint across the Pickup. I’m unsure of the shade, as it is unlike anything on the 3100 color palette for that model year. It shines nicely, with only a few minor chips and flaws. It is common to find a Pickup of this vintage with cloudy or cracked glass, but this classic has no such problems. The bed is a highlight for me, featuring fresh timber and black joiner strips to provide contrast. Older dents and dings are visible below the fresh paint in this area, but they add to its character and prove that this beauty was never a trailer queen. Otherwise, nothing indicates this Chevy has done any real work since the seller downed tools for the final time. The chrome trim and painted bumpers add to this Pickup’s appeal, while the slammed ride height, wider steel wheels, trim rings, and sparkling hubcaps suggest there could be more to this old girl than first meets the eye.

The exterior presentation indicates that the seller had an eye for detail during their build, and this impression continues when we turn our attention to its interior. To keep it short and sweet, it needs nothing. The seat wears an attractive new cover in brown vinyl, there is a new rubber mat on the floor, and the painted surfaces shine richly. The aftermarket wheel would feel more comfortable than the skinny original, but the interior features a few other creature comforts to improve the motoring experience. The seller added air conditioning that blows ice-cold, while a modern stereo relieves boredom on long journeys.

When it was shiny and new, this Pickup’s engine bay would have housed a 216.5ci six-cylinder engine producing 92hp and 176 ft/lbs of torque. Those figures meant it would have carried its designated load with ease. However, who can’t use more power? The seller followed a tried-and-true formula with its mechanical configuration, flicking the six in favor of a 350ci V8. Its specifications are unclear, but it would be safe to assume that it pumps out considerably more than 92hp! A Turbo 400 automatic transmission is bolted to the small-block, while power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes are welcome additions. Since they completed the build, the seller has only clocked 2,000 miles behind the wheel. That means it is barely broken in. It runs and drives well and doesn’t get hot. They say they would drive it anywhere, opening the tantalizing possibility of the buyer flying in and driving home in their new toy. There is probably no better way to become acquainted with a classic vehicle than by bonding on an extended road trip.

I like this 1953 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup, and although I openly favor vehicles carrying the Blue-Oval badge, I wouldn’t mind finding it parked in my garage. I’m not alone because it has already attracted thirty-nine bids with plenty of time remaining on the auction. Predicting a final sale price on a vehicle of this type is challenging because the upgrades mean it becomes worth what someone is willing to pay. However, I won’t be surprised if it climbs beyond $30,000 before the hammer falls. With that thought in mind, are you tempted to make a play for this classic? If you do, I wish you luck.