The 1952 Chevrolet 3100 five-window pickup remains a darling of the custom world thanks to its iconic curved rear glass and bulbous fenders. This specific project began its transformation in 2018 and emerged as a completed masterpiece in 2025. It strikes a delicate balance between mid-century charm and modern performance engineering. The body was completely removed from the frame to ensure every nut and bolt met modern standards. Finished in a two-tone Sun Beige and white scheme, the truck exudes a warm, nostalgic character. However, beneath that vintage sheet metal lies a thoroughly modern drivetrain designed for reliable street use. With only 258 miles since the final assembly, it offers a fresh experience for any collector. It stands as a prime example of the enduring appeal of the Advance Design series when paired with contemporary power.
Advanced Chassis and Suspension Architecture
Improving the road manners of a 1952 Chevrolet 3100 requires moving away from the original leaf spring technology. This truck utilizes a Mustang II-spec independent front suspension to provide a much smoother and more predictable ride. In the rear, a sophisticated four-link setup with coil springs has been installed to manage the power from the V8. Power rack-and-pinion steering has been integrated to modernize the steering feel for effortless city driving. To give the truck a more aggressive stance, 20 inch American Racing wheels were chosen for all four corners. These wheels are wrapped in Nitto tires that fill the flared wheel arches perfectly. Stopping power comes from a power-assisted system featuring front disc brakes for increased safety in modern traffic. The combination of these parts ensures the truck handles with the poise of a much newer vehicle.
Modern LS1 Performance and Drivetrain Details
Under the hood of this 1952 Chevrolet 3100 sits a 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine that provides modern fuel-injected reliability. The engine is fitted with body-color covers and shorty headers to maintain a clean and integrated aesthetic. A Spectre conical air filter helps the V8 breathe while providing a subtle performance intake sound. This modern powerplant is linked to a four-speed 4L60E automatic transmission for easy cruising. Power is delivered to the rear wheels with the smooth consistency expected from a professionally sorted LS swap. The cooling system and electrical wiring were all updated during the refurbishment to support the new engine. This mechanical setup offers significantly more horsepower and torque than any original 1950s Thriftmaster six-cylinder ever could. It makes the truck as capable on a highway as it is on a slow boulevard cruise.
Bespoke Interior Craftsmanship and Technology
The cab of the 1952 Chevrolet 3100 has been reimagined with a focus on comfort and high-end materials. A custom bench seat upholstered in beige and white vinyl matches the exterior two-tone paint perfectly. Modern amenities have been carefully integrated, including an aftermarket Pioneer audio system and air conditioning. An Ididit steering column topped with a wood-rimmed wheel provides a touch of class to the driver’s interface. Dakota Digital gauges replace the original units to provide accurate data while maintaining a classic look. Fresh carpeting and custom door panels complete the interior overhaul for a cohesive show-quality feel. Seatbelts were also added to enhance safety during weekend excursions. Every detail inside the five-window cab has been polished to ensure a premium experience for both the driver and passenger.
Refined Body Modifications and Cargo Bed
Body work on this 1952 Chevrolet 3100 was extensive, including new sheet metal for the bed and the lower door sections. The “Sun Beige” paint is complemented by a bright white roof that highlights the unique five-window cab design. A traditional wood-plank cargo bed with polished strips adds a touch of organic texture to the rear. Chrome bumpers and a matching grille provide the necessary flash to balance the understated beige body color. Running boards bridge the gap between the flared fenders, maintaining the classic silhouette of the early fifties. The curved rear quarter windows remain the standout feature, offering excellent visibility and a signature look. Auxiliary lighting and a driver-side mirror ensure the truck meets modern functional requirements on the road. This exterior package honors the original design while adding the crisp finish of a 2025 restoration.
Summary of a Freshly Completed Build
This 1952 Chevrolet 3100 five-window is a turn-key classic that benefits from a seven-year refurbishment journey. It successfully combines the most desirable body style of the era with the most popular modern engine swap. The Sun Beige finish and 20 inch wheels create a look that is both timeless and contemporary. Inside, the addition of air conditioning and digital gauges makes it a pleasure to drive in any weather. With a Mustang II front end and four-link rear, it offers handling that far exceeds the original factory specs. The LS1 engine and 4L60E transmission provide a reliable heartbeat for many years of future service. It comes with a clean Texas title and the peace of mind that comes with a fresh build. This pickup is ready to be the highlight of any local show or a stylish daily driver.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
