Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
The 1941 Chevrolet AK Series ½-ton pickup represents a significant period in American automotive history, standing as a testament to pre-war utility and robust design. This particular example, having undergone a thorough refurbishment in 2002 and 2003, embodies a meticulous effort to restore its classic allure while ensuring its mechanical vitality. Resplendent in Brewster Green with contrasting black fenders, this pickup offers a unique blend of historical authenticity and renewed roadworthiness. Its journey from South Dakota to Texas for refurbishment, and subsequently to its current museum display, highlights the dedication to preserving this iconic piece of Chevrolet’s legacy.
Exterior Design and Classic Refinements: The 1941 Chevrolet AK Series pickup makes a distinct visual statement, refinished in a stately Brewster Green. This classic color is thoughtfully complemented by a contrasting green stripe encircling the cab, along with classic black fenders and running boards, enhancing its period-correct aesthetic. The design highlights its debut year, 1941, featuring a chassis derived from the General Motors A Platform, shared with contemporary Chevrolet Deluxe passenger cars. Exterior features include a split windshield, a functional driver-side mirror, and Chevrolet-branded step plates, adding to its authentic utility. Chrome bumpers provide a touch of elegance, while a single-paned rear window and a wood-slat cargo bed floor, complete with a drop-down tailgate, underscore its utilitarian roots.
Chassis and Suspension Enhancements: During its 2003 refurbishment, the suspension of this 1941 Chevrolet AK Series pickup received a comprehensive rebuild, enhancing its ride quality and stability. The body-color 16-inch steel wheels were repainted and adorned with dual contrasting green pinstripes, perfectly matching the truck’s overall color scheme. These wheels feature chrome hubcaps, prominently debossed with red and blue-painted Chevrolet logotype and design elements, adding to its vintage charm. The BFGoodrich Silvertown tires, mounted in 2002, provide an authentic look and reliable performance. Braking capabilities are provided by drums at each corner, consistent with original specifications and suited for its classic driving dynamics.
Interior Simplicity and Comfort: The cabin of the 1941 Chevrolet AK Series pickup maintains a focus on classic simplicity and functional comfort. It features a traditional bench seat, upholstered in a warm brown vinyl, providing a comfortable and inviting space for occupants. Interior appointments are straightforward yet practical, including a top-hinged opening windshield, which offers an authentic period ventilation method, and a lockable glovebox for secure storage of personal items. The uncluttered dashboard and straightforward controls emphasize the utilitarian nature of the pickup, while the renewed upholstery ensures a pleasant environment for both short trips and longer drives.
Instrumentation and Drivetrain Management: The three-spoke steering wheel frames a clear instrument cluster, featuring a 100-mph speedometer, alongside essential gauges for coolant temperature, oil pressure, battery charge, and fuel level. While the fuel gauge is noted as inaccurate, the remaining instrumentation provides crucial operational data. The five-digit odometer currently displays 1,800 miles, with approximately 1,700 of those miles accumulated under current ownership, though true mileage remains unknown. The power from the engine is managed by a three-speed manual transmission, which was recently rebuilt in April 2025 by Snook’s Dream Cars in Bowling Green, Ohio, ensuring smooth and reliable gear changes. Leaks are noted from the differential and steering box, which may require attention.
Power and Performance: Powering this 1941 Chevrolet AK Series pickup is a robust 216ci inline-six engine, a reliable powerplant for its era, factory-rated at 90 gross horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. This engine underwent a professional rebuild in 2003 by Rodney Blankenship of C-C Enterprises in Lufkin, Texas. During the rebuild, hardened valve seats were installed, enhancing durability, and .030-inch-over pistons were fitted, potentially increasing its effective displacement and performance. To improve its modern usability, a 12-volt electrical system has been integrated, providing more reliable power for accessories and starting. Recent service in 2024 included an oil and coolant change in March, and a fuel pump replacement in November, ensuring the engine runs efficiently and is ready for the road.
Documentation and History: This 1941 Chevrolet AK Series pickup comes with a comprehensive history and documentation. The seller acquired the vehicle in 2004 and has since displayed it at their museum, highlighting its status as a collector’s item. Included with the sale are the original owner’s manual and various service records, along with detailed refurbishment records dating back to 2002. A selection of refurbishment photos is available, showcasing the meticulous work performed during its restoration. The Ohio title for the vehicle carries a “Non-Actual/Odometer Discrepancy” mileage brand, acknowledging the unknown true mileage but confirming its legal status.
Summary:
- ½-ton pickup refurbished in 2002-2003.
- Powered by a rebuilt 216ci inline-six engine.
- Features a three-speed manual transmission.
- Refinished in Brewster Green with black fenders.
- Interior includes a brown vinyl bench seat.
- Equipped with chrome bumpers and a wood-slat cargo bed floor.
- Rides on 16-inch steel wheels with hubcaps and BFGoodrich Silvertown tires.
- Suspension rebuilt in 2003.
- Has a 12-volt electrical system.
- Comes with owner’s manual, service records, and refurbishment photos.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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