The Advance-Design trucks built by GM after the Second World War were a smash success. These redesigned Chevy pickups, built from 1947 to 1955, outsold all other trucks during those years. So it’s little wonder that examples like the 1954 model recently offered on eBay are still popular among enthusiasts.
Maybe you recognize Chevy Advanced-Design trucks from a display at your local Old Navy store. For years, the clothing chain put the Chevy trucks inside the store (minus their drivetrains)—to provide a cool retro vibe to the environment.
Old Navy distributed about 1,500 of them across stores in the US. But in 2008, the company decided to sell off or scrap most of these trucks. A batch of them were offered on eBay Motors - opens in new window or tab..
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These days, truck enthusiasts keep a sharp eye open for any forgotten 3100s that get discovered in barns and garages. That’s the story of the specimen for sale now on eBay.
An Eight-Year Reign for Advance-Design Trucks
The Advance-Design trucks varied little over the eight years they dominated the US truck market. Of course, there were changes, but they were minor enough to allow builders to mix components between years. But hands off the 1954 fenders and grill. They’re gorgeous.
General Motors announced the new look of its post-war truck for the 1947 model year. By 1954, the lineup of trucks had added a new 235 cubic-inch, six-cylinder engine that delivered 112 horsepower. It also featured new parking lights and an updated dashboard layout.
A year later, in 1955, Chevy introduced the Task Force series of trucks. The new pickup line brought a small-block V-8 and boosted the electric system from six to 12 volts to handle new accessories. The new Chevy 265 cubic inch V-8 gave GM its longest running engine format, the venerable small block - opens in new window or tab. that until today uses much of the same design. The V-8 was smaller and lighter than the 6-cylinder stovebolt engine - opens in new window or tab. and produced up to 180 horsepower.
The 1955 Task Force truck line replaced the Advance Design series, but the 3100 model designation remained with the half-ton trucks until 1959 when Chevy introduced the C and K series of trucks.
Bring This ’54 Back to Life
The seller of the 1954 Chevrolet 3100—with its lovely patina and weathered Chevron logo—points out a hole in the passenger side floor and the need to replace the transmission cover. Fortunately, appropriate replacement floor pans - opens in new window or tab. and transmission covers - opens in new window or tab. are available on eBay Motors. The interior cabin obviously needs a complete overhaul. But just imagine what you could do with it.
A builder could stay faithful to the original—or go nuts with customizations, as seen with this 1951 Chevy 3100 sold recently on eBay. Either way, the affordable 1954 for sale—and any of the 75 or so other Chevy 3100s offered on eBay - opens in new window or tab.—are a great start.
From there, it’s a matter of perusing eBay's thousands of vintage and classic Chevrolet 3100 parts - opens in new window or tab., from brakes and body panels to switches and steering wheels.
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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.