The 1949 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup remains a definitive symbol of post-war American industry and design. This specific example emerged from a comprehensive 2023 refurbishment that focused on preserving its workhorse roots while adding subtle mechanical upgrades. Collectors often look for this Advance-Design series because of its iconic rounded fenders and five-bar horizontal grille. Finding one with a documented refresh ensures the next owner can focus on the drive rather than immediate repairs.
Exterior Craftsmanship and Traditional Details
The truck features a two-tone finish with a green body contrasted by black fenders and running boards. This color scheme highlights the classic silhouette that made the 3100 series a favorite for decades. Chrome bumpers and a matching grille provide a bright counterpoint to the deep paint tones used across the exterior. A fresh wood-plank floor sits in the cargo bed, held together by polished metal strips for a truly authentic look.
Refined Footwork and Braking Systems
Authenticity continues down to the 15-inch steel wheels which wear polished chrome hubcaps for a factory appearance. These wheels are wrapped in Firestone whitewall tires that perfectly complement the late-forties aesthetic of the vehicle. Underneath the skin, the seller upgraded the front wheels with a disc brake conversion to improve stopping reliability. This modification makes the vintage truck much more manageable when navigating modern traffic or steep descents.
Interior Simplicity and Functional Design
The cab keeps things straightforward with a bench seat upholstered in durable black vinyl for a clean look. While the radio is absent, the interior retains its original charm with a three-spoke steering wheel and a metal dashboard. Safety was considered during the restoration through the installation of lap belts and modern turn signals for the driver. A dome light provides interior visibility during nighttime cruises without disrupting the period-correct atmosphere of the cabin.
Instrumentation and Driver Feedback
Behind the steering wheel, the driver finds an 80-mph speedometer that serves as the primary focal point. Auxiliary gauges monitor vital signs like oil pressure, amperage, fuel levels, and the current coolant temperature. Since the rebuild, the five-digit odometer shows very few miles, though the total chassis mileage is officially unknown. These analog displays offer a tactile connection to the mechanical soul of the truck during every shifting gear change.
Engine Specifications and Drivetrain Power
Lifting the hood reveals a 235ci inline-six engine that underwent a full rebuild during the recent 2023 restoration. This legendary powerplant is known for its reliability and smooth torque delivery across the low rev range. The addition of a high-capacity aluminum radiator helps the engine maintain optimal temperatures even during summer drives. Power moves through a four-speed manual transmission which provides a traditional and engaging gear-rowing experience for the purist.
The rebuilt 235ci inline-six produces steady power through a synchronized four-speed manual gearbox that sends drive to the rear wheels. This setup allows the 1949 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup to maintain consistent speeds while hauling light loads or cruising rural backroads. The front disc brake conversion provides the necessary clamping force to balance the increased cooling efficiency of the aluminum radiator. Every mechanical component works in harmony to deliver a vintage experience with improved safety margins.
Summary of the Chevy Restoration
This 1949 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup stands as a well-sorted example of a landmark vehicle in the truck world. The combination of the 2023 engine rebuild and the front disc brake conversion creates a very usable classic. It maintains the visual purity of the Advance-Design era while benefiting from necessary cooling and safety updates. For the enthusiast seeking a turnkey vintage truck with a clean Kansas title, this Chevy offers a compelling package.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
