The Chevrolet Task Force series trucks, produced from 1955 through 1959, redefined the look of American work vehicles. They moved away from the earlier, rounder design toward a sleeker, more modern aesthetic. This 1956 Chevrolet 3800 Flatbed represents a meticulously modified and refurbished example of this classic generation. Purchased by its owner in 1995, the truck underwent a dedicated refurbishment and modification period spanning a decade, from 2005 to 2015. It maintains the classic heavy-duty chassis while incorporating significant performance and comfort upgrades, making it a powerful and unique hauler.
The Refinished Exterior and Custom Bed
The visual appeal of this truck is immediately striking, thanks to a careful 2011 refinishing of the cab and front bodywork in a vibrant blue. The exterior maintains a classic, purposeful stance, enhanced by a windshield visor and dual side mirrors. Contrast is provided by the white-finished grille and front bumper. The biggest exterior modification is the custom-built flatbed. It sits atop a sturdy steel frame that has been professionally powder-coated black for durability and visual contrast. The floor is robust, featuring plywood covered in aluminum diamond-plate.
Functional and Stylish Flatbed Components
The custom bed is designed for both utility and aesthetics. It includes a robust aluminum headache rack positioned directly behind the cab for protection. For securing various loads, the truck is equipped with folding rear gates and removable aluminum stake-bed side panels. These features make the bed highly versatile for different hauling needs. Practicality extends to the rear with a Curt receiver hitch installed. This allows for modern towing capabilities, blending the truck’s classic look with contemporary function. It is a genuine working masterpiece.
The Rebuilt 406 CI V8 Engine
The heart of this Chevrolet workhorse is a replacement 406 cubic inch V8 small-block engine. The V8 was completely rebuilt in 2011, ensuring it provides dependable and substantial power output. Performance upgrades include an Edelbrock intake manifold, which helps optimize airflow to the cylinders. Fuel is delivered through a four-barrel carburetor, offering efficient operation and full power under load. Furthermore, an aftermarket distributor ensures precise ignition timing. The truck also benefits from a replaced fuel pump and water pump in 2025.
Power, Performance, and The Stacks
This upgraded 406 CI small-block V8 configuration is engineered for robust performance and reliable output. With the Edelbrock intake and four-barrel carburetor, the engine likely produces well over 400 horsepower and substantial torque. Power is channeled to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission, a significant upgrade over the original gearbox. This transmission provides better gear spacing and highway cruising capability. The engine’s forceful exhaust note exits through headers that feed into imposing dual chrome stacks, mounted right behind the cab. Braking performance is handled by overhauled four-wheel drum brakes and a solid axle and leaf spring suspension system.
Interior Comfort and Driver Amenities
The cab has been thoughtfully modernized to improve driver comfort. The original bench seat was replaced with comfortable bucket seats, providing better support for long hauls. They are trimmed in practical black and separated by a folding center arm rest. For convenience, an aftermarket air conditioning system is installed, ensuring comfort on hot days. This AC system was recently recharged in 2025. Entertainment is managed by a digital AM/FM/cassette stereo with overhead speakers. Overall, the interior is a blend of vintage looks with necessary modern amenities.
Driver Instrumentation and Drivetrain
The driver interacts with a three-spoke steering wheel and the classic instrument cluster. This cluster houses a 100-mph speedometer, an ammeter, and gauges for temperature, oil pressure, and fuel. An additional aftermarket coolant-temperature gauge is mounted below the dash for improved monitoring. Power is efficiently transferred via the five-speed manual transmission to a heavy-duty 14-bolt rear end. This driveline setup is robust enough to handle the 406 V8’s considerable output. A large 35-gallon fuel tank is mounted below the flatbed, providing extended operational range.
A Unique Blend of Classic and Custom
This 1956 Chevrolet 3800 Flatbed stands as an impressive example of a thoughtfully executed restomod truck. The refurbishment focused on combining the desirable styling of the Task Force era with modern dependability and power. From the refinished body and custom, powder-coated flatbed to the rebuilt 406 V8 and 5-speed manual transmission, the truck offers substantial appeal. It represents the perfect fusion of a vintage aesthetic with true performance capability. The accompanying service records confirm the history of care and modification invested in this striking flatbed.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
