Older Pickups remain one of the star performers in the classic market, with enthusiasts split equally on the subject of preservation, restoration, and custom builds. This 1954 Chevrolet 3600 is a prime example of the breed, and while its exterior looks weathered, it is rock-solid and ready for a new owner to place their stamp on it. The seller revived this beauty, and returning it to a roadworthy state should be fairly straightforward. If you feel irresistibly drawn, you will find the Pickup listed here on eBay in Orange, Virginia. Bidding sits below the reserve at $7,700, with time remaining on the auction.

Chevrolet released its Advance-Design commercial range in 1947 as its first new post-war model. It featured a diverse selection of vehicles designed to cater to almost any need. Our feature 3600 model is the ¾-ton version, offering greater load-carrying capacity than the more common 3100. There’s much to like about this beauty, which the seller revived after over two decades of hiding. The Ocean Green paint coating its exterior is original, and carries the weathered look that is often a hallmark of these classics. However, the seller treated part of the driver’s door with hot linseed oil, and the results were encouraging. That leaves the winning bidder with choices to make. The comprehensive image gallery confirms there is surface corrosion, but there is no evidence of penetrating rust. That makes it a prime candidate for a sympathetic restoration, although how the paint responded to the linseed oil makes preservation viable. The rear window is out, but the seller includes new glass and the appropriate seal for the buyer to install. The same applies to the door glass and regulators, with new door mechanisms also included.

The biggest news for 1954 was Chevrolet’s decision to offer Pickup buyers the option of equipping their new purchase with a four-speed Hydramatic transmission. This classic’s first owner accepted that invitation, bolting it behind the legendary 235ci six. The motor should generate 105hp and 191 ft/lbs of torque, allowing it to effortlessly cart a full load in the bed. The Pickup had lain idle for over twenty years when purchased by the seller, and an investigation revealed two stuck valves. They didn’t compromise, pulling the cylinder head and performing a complete rebuild. They include an embedded video of it running in their listing, and the motor sounds perfect. It yard drives well, with the Hydramatic shifting as it should. They have replaced some parts in a quest for roadworthiness but include many components, allowing the winning bidder to complete the process. If they use the supplied parts, the braking system will be entirely new, and any questionable seals will be refreshed.

It is common to find older unrestored Pickups with tired and battered interiors, but this Chev is surprisingly good. The seat requires a new cover, and a new mat would lift the presentation further. However, it is serviceable, and there are no aftermarket additions. The seller identifies a couple of functional issues, primarily non-operational turning signals. Otherwise, everything works as it should. The parts collection includes interior components like sunvisors, giving the winning bidder a starting point for whipping the interior into shape.

My instincts tell me that many regular readers will view this 1954 Chevrolet 3600 Pickup as a prime candidate for restoration, and I understand that sentiment. Others will see it as the ideal foundation for a custom build. Me? I’d opt for preservation because it would undoubtedly draw attention and command respect in its current form. Sadly, it will never find its way into my garage, so I can’t follow that path. Are you tempted to join the bidding war? If you do, what would be your plans?