Every old truck carries a story, and this 1953 Chevrolet 1500 Step Side has one that’s especially heartfelt. Listed here on eBay by a private seller, this classic pickup was a beloved project owned by the seller’s late husband—someone who clearly saw its potential and kept it protected with care, even if he never got the chance to see it through to completion.
According to the listing, the truck has always been stored indoors, covered, and kept safe in a shed for more than a decade. It last ran about ten years ago, but was reportedly running well when parked. Under the hood is a 230-cubic-inch inline-six, paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, both of which were common choices for Chevrolet’s postwar pickups. The engine casting number provided, #3788406, corresponds to the kind of powerplant that helped make these early Chevy trucks famous for their dependability.
The seller notes that the truck has no tailgate but otherwise remains a solid project with great bones. It’s finished in purple, an eye-catching color that makes it stand out from the usual lineup of faded work-truck hues, and the clean title makes the sale straightforward. The truck’s Vehicle ID number is F0404NE, identifying it as a true 1953 1500 model.
This particular pickup represents a perfect starting point for someone looking to take on a manageable classic project. The fact that it’s been stored indoors and not left exposed to the elements is an encouraging sign. Whether someone restores it to factory condition or builds it into a mild custom, the foundation here looks promising—and with 1950s Chevy trucks continuing to grow in popularity, it’s a project worth the effort.
The seller also makes it clear that they’re open to offers, hoping to find someone who will continue what her husband started and bring the truck back to life. It’s more than just an old vehicle; it’s a personal piece of history, and now it’s waiting for a new caretaker to take it the rest of the way.
Would you keep this ’53 Chevy Step-Side original, or turn it into the showpiece its owner always imagined?
This is the sort of project you go to see in person. The seller isn’t likely to know much about it. It doesn’t look bad from what you can see in the pictures, so there is hope it’s not a basket case. A lot of older people put away some pretty solid projects over the years they never got to, this looks like it could fall into that category. The price isn’t bad and she seems to be negotiable. Hopefully it goes to a good home.
A full set of 4 dish/slot mags are a bonus, they look good and have a strong resell value with 6 lugs.
Steve R
Should this 3100 have the original engine it’s actually a 235 straight six.
The breather looks like one for a later produced 230 six cylinder.
I had a 64 Chevelle 230 engine in my past.
I own a 235 engine 1954 3100 Chevrolet truck with an smaller round oil canister breather.
It looks good..and hope it gets back on the road soon.
Easily worth the asking price, but if I bought it it wouldn’t stay purple. I’d do a late model chassis swap and drive it everywhere.
It may be titled as a ’53 but the doors are off a ’50 or prior, as for the engine, a 235 would have been stock, a 230 would be a ’64 or later replacement which adds to the question has it been changed to an open driveshaft? All that being said for 5k it would be a great project!
I get the old guy project part. I’ve been working off and on for a long time on my ‘50 3100 Chevy.😁. I agree with the comments. It’s a heck of a good start for someone. And I like the mods.
Where is it located?
Lodi, Wisconsin
Lodi, Wisconsin
Very nice truck, change color and ride, I love it! Great piece of history!!
An excellent truck to finish building into a weekend warrior.. Can be easily made road worthy for C&C or Cruise In’s.
Looked at all the comments and concluded I love the truck and love the color.
Sold 11/15/2025, seller took an offer.
Steve R