Original price: $1,900.00
On loan from: Dondi and Ronda Shearer, Minden, NE
Previous owner: Purchased in North Platte, NE in 2021
Engine, etc.: 6.0 LS1 engine; 4L80 automatic transmission, air conditioning, cruise control; 4-wheel disc brakes; Mustang II front end; 9” Ford rear-end. Color is Copper Head.
Noteworthy: Dondi and Ronda won this truck in a raffle at Mid-Plains Community College.
Chevrolet introduced a new line of pickups in 1948. It was General Motors first major redesign after World War II. Named an “Advanced Design” truck, standard equipment included a heater and defroster which were a luxury in those days. The cab was eight inches larger and seven inches taller than previous models and could seat three people. The windshield was larger and in two pieces. The grill had a horizontal design and recessed headlights. Fenders were rounder and added to a more aerodynamic body.
The 3100 series was made from June, 1947 until March, 1955. During those years, Chevrolet trucks ranked number one in sales in the U. S.
The 3100 pickup came in three sizes: half, three-quarter, and full-ton with either long or short wheelbases.
Design updates were made for 1955 models including a one-piece curved windshield rather than one with a center vertical dividing strip. The dashboard and steering wheel were updated. Taillights were round instead of rectangular. The grille changed from five horizontal slats to a crossbar design more like Dodge truck grills. Parking lights were incorporated into the grille and a chrome grille was an option. The Hydramatic automatic transmission was available for the first time. A new 235 cu. in. straight-6 engine had higher compression, insert bearings, and high-pressure lubrication.
Other changes made for 1955 models were updated hood-side emblems and the enclosed torque tube was replaced with a modern open driveshaft.
Source: https://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/series.aspx?makeID=31&modelID=3784&h=30666#30666
See also: https://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/GM%20Trucks%20and%20Vans/1955_Trucks-and_Vans/1955_GMC_Models-Features/1955%20GMC%20Models%20%20amp%20%20Features-00.html (Original dealer brochure)