The 1955 Chevrolet Cameo Carrier pickup for sale on eBay is a tasteful restomod featuring panoramic wraparound windows. That "sweep-sight" windshield is the signature feature of the GM "Task Force" trucks introduced in 1955.
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1955 brochure for Task Force pickups.
The Task Force trucks - opens in new window or tab. were a departure for General Motors and the auto industry. They introduced levels of comfort and refinement not previously seen in work vehicles. Chevrolet's 1955 truck sales brochure spelled it out:
o said you can't combine utility and beauty in a half-ton pickup? Chevrolet has done it! Just look at Chevrolet's new Cameo Carrier. It combines dazzling beauty and rugged utilit
In addition to wraparound windows, GM offered an optional "Airmatic" bench (to adjust seat firmness), concealed safety steps, and a capable powertrain providing 238 pound-feet of torque.
The Chevrolet Cameo Carrier led the way. Dodge and Ford quickly followed. As a result, we have the makings of today's formula for refined do-everything pickups.
Chevrolet Cameo Carrier as Salt Flats Tribute
The livery of the Cameo truck available on eBay pays tribute to the Bonneville Salt Flats. Theoretically, the pickup could have provided excellent service to the famous Bonneville belly tank racers back in the day. (eBay occasionally offers one of those bullet-like racing vehicles made from mothballed aircraft - opens in new window or tab..)
But it's the Cameo Bonneville tribute truck that arguably deserves a more prominent place in automotive history. It's a beautifully designed automobile that can be driven every day.
- Red and black stripes run fore to aft, from the top of the headlight bezels to the tailgate.
- Subtle red vertical hashmark accents behind the wheel wells add a sense of motion.
- A Pegasus adorns both front fenders.
- Bonneville 200-MPH Club Life Member stickers proudly display prominently on the vent windows.
The front fascia of Chevrolet's Task Force trucks echoes the company's passenger sedans and coupes. Most '55 Chevy pickups used a stepside design with the fender wells extending wider than the truck's bed.
By contrast, the new Cameo employed sleek flush side panels and distinctive taillights. The blending of truck and car features links the Cameo with the El Camino that would follow a few years later.
A Slick Restomod Truck
This sweet Cameo could be one of the cleanest 1950s work trucks you'll ever see. Massive air horns - opens in new window or tab. and five wide running lights cover the roof. The cargo bed floor consists of wood planks accented by chrome strips. The Cameo's bright red paintwork carries into the cargo box walls. The wheel and tire combo is spot on—with Toyo - opens in new window or tab. Proxes Tires wrapped around 17-inch American Racing Salt Flat Wheels.
The builders replaced the original running gear with a 350 cubic-inch V-8 engine and four-speed Muncie transmission. Other key features include:
- A four-barrel carburetor beneath the 1950's era Cadillac air cleaner
- Custom dual exhaust with side exits ahead of the rear wheels
- Power disc brakes and power rack-and-pinion steering
The Cameo's updated interior is also a case studio for a thoughtful restomod pickup.
- Black upholstered TMI split-bench seats and door cards provide the foundation.
- A steering wheel column-mounted Auto Meter tachometer - opens in new window or tab. is located behind the red metal-flake Billet Specialties steering wheel - opens in new window or tab..
- Analog water temperature, volts, and oil pressure gauges adorn the dashboard below the aftermarket radio.
While the builder completed the restoration work 20 years ago, the Cameo was well maintained. So the 1955 Chevrolet Cameo Carrier pickup - opens in new window or tab. is ready for a new owner who appreciates the many charms of this game-changing truck.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.