The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk I just may own a "Frankenstein" truck.

It is amazing what you can learn in this forum! Even by just reading other's posts. Here is something I learned recently... My truck is titled as a 1953 3100. However the cab is a 1950, or older, with 1953 doors. In '51 when Chevy added the vent windows to the doors, they also eliminated the side cowl vent. Well, as you can see in this photo, mine has both. Photo Bucket
I don't really have any history on the truck. The guy I bought it from wouldn't volunteer much about the truck. He also told me the engine was the original 1953 235. My research shows that it is a 235. But out of a 1961 Chevy truck. Makes me wonder how many trucks he used to build one truck. I just may own a "Frankenstein" truck. LOL!
I love reading all your posts. Like I said, I learn a lot just by reading what you post and discuss. Thanks for all the help.

What does the serial number plate on the drivers side door jamb have stamped on it? Also curious if it is riveted like 51-on or screwed on like 47-50?
https://www.flickr.com/photos/advance-design_parts_co/8130552154/in/set-72157631870734114
https://www.flickr.com/photos/advance-design_parts_co/8130544440/in/set-72157631870734114

KMAC

When 60 year old vehicles are restored, it is not uncommon to use parts from a bunch of different vehicles. If the cab was rusted out or damaged, someone may have installed a better cab. If the original motor was junk, it was replaced with a good motor. Its a good looking pickup. I wouldn't worry about where the parts came from.

Joe,

Nice looking machine. Most of the mix-and-matching of old trucks like these is only noticed by old truck geeks like us. Unless you are trying to make a numbers matching restoration, I wouldn't worry about the correct year inconsistencies. The only problem with a multi-year truck is when rebuilding and/or buying parts as you must first learn to correctly identify the vintage of the component in order to make sure everything fits correctly. That is part of the fun with this hobby. I have found that the Stovebolt community here has a very robust collective knowledge and can identify nearly any component/part.

Have fun!

BTW, I see that you are located in Huntersville...just down the mountain from me. There are a bunch of guys with AD trucks in your area.

Paul

Frankentruck is a good thing IMO.

I bet having the cowl vents and vent windows makes for a nice breezy ride on hot summer days!

For the life of me I don't understand why they ever stopped putting vent windows and kick panel vents on vehicles... one of my favorite feature on older trucks and cars, but then I am a windows down kinda guy.

Thanks for posting the photos and telling your story!

John