Modernizing a mid-century workhorse requires a delicate touch to keep its vintage charm intact. This 1956 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup achieves that balance through a comprehensive restomod treatment. While the iconic Task Force styling remains, the mechanical underpinnings have been completely reimagined for today’s roads. It stands as a vibrant example of classic design meeting modern performance engineering.
Exterior Styling and Custom Aqua Finish
The truck wears a striking Aqua paint job that highlights the clean lines of the small-rear-window cab. To achieve a smoother look, the owner chose to shave the factory hood emblems. Bright chrome accents and a relocated gas tank under the bed keep the profile sleek and uncluttered. Consequently, the aesthetic is both nostalgic and custom, sitting perfectly on its 15-inch Torq Thrust wheels. Some minor scratches exist from use, but the overall presentation remains show-ready.
Chassis and Suspension Innovations
Underneath the skin, the chassis benefits from a Mustang II-style independent front suspension. This setup provides power steering and significantly better handling than the original straight axle. At the rear, a Western Chassis four-link coilover system locates a narrowed Moser 9-inch rear end. This combination allows for a lower stance and much more predictable cornering. Every suspension component was replaced with new parts to ensure a tight, reliable ride quality.
Custom Interior and Modern Amenities
Inside the cab, a mix of aqua and white vinyl upholstery covers the classic bench seat. Dynamat insulation was added throughout to reduce road noise and heat transfer from the engine. Drivers will find a tilt steering column topped with a wood-rimmed billet wheel for better ergonomics. Vintage Air conditioning and a Bluetooth-capable Retro Sound Apache stereo provide modern comfort on longer drives. These upgrades transform the 1956 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup into a genuinely usable cruiser.
Electrical and Monitoring Systems
The electrical system was completely overhauled with a modern American Wiring harness for total reliability. Classic Instruments provided analog-style digital gauges that fit the period look while offering precise data. New window components and RetroBelt seat belts were installed to improve safety and daily functionality. Every touchpoint feels refreshed, from the Hurst shifter to the new carpeting underfoot. Such attention to detail makes the interior a comfortable place to spend time.
Braking Performance and Wheel Specs
Stopping power is a highlight of this build, thanks to a full Wilwood four-wheel disc brake conversion. A tandem master cylinder and power booster are mounted to the firewall for easy access and consistent pressure. The truck rolls on staggered BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires for an aggressive muscle truck stance. Specifically, massive P295/50R15 tires are tucked under the rear fenders to manage the V8’s power. New brake lines were run throughout to complete the high-performance safety package.
Power, Engine Specs, and Performance
The engine is a 283-cu.in. small-block V8 built with a Lunati Voodoo solid lifter camshaft. An Edelbrock intake and Holley 585-cfm four-barrel carburetor handle the fuel and air delivery. This setup is paired with a T5 five-speed manual transmission and a heavy-duty McLeod hydraulic clutch. A custom aluminum driveshaft sends power to the Moser rear end featuring 3.50:1 gears and limited slip. Dual exhaust with tubular headers ensures the 1956 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup sounds as fast as it looks.
Summary of the Task Force Transformation
This 1956 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup is more than just a restored vintage truck; it is a precision-built machine. The combination of a high-revving 283 V8 and an overdrive five-speed makes it a joy on the highway. With modern suspension and air conditioning, the typical compromises of a seventy-year-old vehicle are gone. It offers the perfect opportunity for an enthusiast to own an iconic Chevy with contemporary drivability. This Aqua restomod is ready for the next cruise-in or cross-country trip.
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Source: hemmings.com
