Some quick facts on 53 model trucks. Bumpers/chrome bits optional due to Korean war restrictions.
• 216.5 cubic inch engine; low pressure inline-6 engine with 30 psi oil pressure gauge. This is the last year for the 216 cu.in. low-pressure babbit bearing type engine. In 1953. the Powerglide-equipped automobiles used the new, higher-pressure 235 engine (with hyydraulic lifters).
• 235 cubic inch engine is available on larger trucks; this is also a low-pressure inline-6 engine with 30psi oil pressure gauge. (the last year)
• Cloth-braided wiring.
• Shortages during the Korean War are the primary reasons for the eliminating of bright work on the 1952 and 1953 truck.
• Therefore, painted items on these trucks include: hub caps, bumpers, grille, radio speaker horizontal trim, glovebox door, etc.
• Interior window cranks and wiper knobs are maroon plastic.
• The “back splash” on painted grills is light gray to match hub caps and bumpers (Thistle Gray). On chrome grilles, only the outer bar is plated. The "back splash" bar is as the painted grille.
• Major changes in exterior colors.
• Series/model emblem on sides of hood changed (same as 1954) - hood side emblem changed to large 3100, 3600, 3800, etc...only. No CHEVROLET emblem on side.
• Hood front emblem now stainless steel.
• First year for the optional left-side mount (driver's side) spare on Advance-Design pickups.
• An optional rear bumper is again available this year (had been discontinued in 1951)???
• Door post ID plate is now blue & silver. Prior years were black & silver.
• Last year that wood blocks are used under bed.
• Serial #'s, H 1/2 ton, J 3/4 ton, L 1 ton, etc...
