The seller refers to this 1952 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup as an older restoration, but I’m inclined to consider that process was more a refurbishment. I draw this conclusion due to the changes it underwent, although reversing them would be possible for a new owner considering recapturing this classic’s lost youth. It has generated interest since the seller listed it here on eBay in Tampa, Florida. The bidding has raced past the reserve to sit at $8,700. There is time remaining in the auction for those who see this old truck as the perfect addition to their workshop.
The seller says a previous owner purchased this 3100 fourteen years ago after it underwent a complete restoration. There are a couple of points to consider because some readers will agree with my assessment that the process was more of a refurbishment than a restoration. I always feel a genuine restoration involves returning a vehicle to its factory appearance and specifications, which wasn’t the case with this Pickup. The Blue paint it wears is not from the 1952 Chevrolet color palette. It shows its age, which is surprising considering the seller claims it has been largely garage-kept since the work ended. It has chips and marks, but there are areas where the paint is peeling away entirely, suggesting the work quality may not have been first-rate. It means the new owner will probably strip many areas to bare metal to achieve a better result and the finish level this classic deserves. That is probably it as far as the negative aspects go because there appears to be plenty of good news. Bumps and bruises are only minor, and there are no signs of rust in the prone areas, like the floors and lower cab corners. The seller provides clear shots of the underside that reveal the frame is solid and clean. The bed timber hasn’t rotted but needs refinishing due to visible deterioration. The chrome and glass look excellent, but the buyer might decide to ditch the aftermarket wheels for something that better suits this Pickup’s character.
Lifting this Pickup’s hood reveals another reason why I don’t consider this an older restoration. The engine bay would have housed a 216.5ci six producing 92hp and 176 ft/lbs of torque. That engine is gone, with a 235ci version occupying its spot. This upgrade should bring noticeable performance improvements, with power and torque rising to 105hp and 193 ft/lbs. The power feeds to the road via a manual transmission, although it is unclear whether it is a three-speed or four-speed unit. The seller recently performed a complete service and replaced the fuel pump. They say the Pickup runs and drives extremely well, supplying this YouTube video to support the claim. If the new owner decides to enjoy this classic immediately while devising a plan of attack, that should be possible.
The mixed signals with this old Chevy continue when we examine its interior. Good points include the fact that the horn button and radio blanking plate are intact. Both can go “walkies” as time passes, but this gem has avoided that fate. The upholstered surfaces look respectable and should respond favorably to a thorough clean. I’ve been trying to find a diplomatic way of saying how horrible the carpet is, but that’s the only word that springs to mind. Replacing it would be a priority and will make an enormous difference to the overall presentation. There are a couple of choices, with a reproduction rubber mat retailing for approximately $125 and a carpet set selling for $170. The painted surfaces have a few marks and blemishes, and the new owner might elect to perform a refresh when they tackle the exterior. The speedometer may require attention, as the needle sits in the no-man’s land between zero and 90mph when the vehicle is stationary. That would make me question its accuracy on the road. None of the listed issues are significant, and a competent owner could address most of them in a home workshop.
Considering how relatively recently this 1952 Chevrolet 3100 underwent its refurbishment, I find the paint deterioration disappointing. It makes me wonder about the work quality, and there will undoubtedly be some areas that require stripping to bare metal if the new owner focuses on a high-end paint job. However, its lack of rust and panel damage should mean that it would be a straightforward process producing stunning results. It leaves many options for the buyer to consider, including whether to slot something more potent under the hood. What would be your plans if you found this old classic in your workshop?
A decent price for a 3100 pickup.
The engine upgrade is nicer power and engine oil pressure technology.
Good luck with the sale.
I have a 54 3100 with a 57 chevy 235 engine. I kept my original block but the engine purchased on fleabay was to good to pass up for price and just being rebuilt
I would be tempted to go back blue with white top like the 1950s
Yes, replacing the engine was a very good idea, not only for the power increase but also, as you mentioned, the 235’s pressurized oil lubrication was a huge improvement over the splash lubrication of the 216.
I kinda like the looks of it as is. 235 a plus, I’d put in a t5 5 speed out of an s-10. Will be good to see this beauty on the street! Good luck and happy motoring!
Cheers
GPC
Not a 235. The Chevy “Stovebolt” six was made from 1929-1962. It’s replacement in 1962 – 2001 was the “Turbo Thrift” engine series ( 194,230,250 & 292 cu. in. ). That’s what this blue 3100 has in it. More power, lighter weight than the older design. :-) Terry J
I agree With Terry! Not a 235!
ALSO: That is not the stock 4 speed truck tranny since it has an after market shifter. I’d guess it is the Chevy 3 speed that came behind that six cyinder engine but I suppose it could be a 4 speed car tranny (Muncie/Borg Warner). The under carriage shot shows it still has the original “Torque Tube” rear end which is a negative. Though tough, they came in these trucks with pretty low gears. It is/was an easy swap to an open driveline (back in the day) since the newer rear end from 1955 – 1959 3100s was a virtual bolt in and retained the 6 bolt wheel pattern. Also popular was the ’55-’57 car rear end swap and then also swapping out the front drums to get the common 5 bolt wheel pattern front and back. :-) Terry J
“[T]he buyer might decide to ditch the aftermarket wheels for something that better suits this Pickup’s character.”
Indeed.
Yes, what’s with that ‘change-the-wheels” stuff? It does nothing but break the mood of enjoying a vintage vehicle, a blemish on the final picture.
O.B.the W. These trucks didn’t come with carpet but I remember the rubber mat with some kind of insulating material underneath. Actually a heater was optional as I recall. :-) Terry J
That’s a clean 5 window! I’d swap to an open driveline, but keep the six lugs, finish up the interior, and that’s it.
It never ceases to amaze me the number of vehicles I see with the hood up and the air cleaner missing. Is it just to show the entire engine for the photo or do these people not care what gets circulated through their engines?