So, I found this truck on the for sale page back in October 2014. The ad wasn't specific and thought i would right down the number and call after work. Later when I checked back to see if anyone responded I noticed it was deleted. Well, apparently the owner didn't post the required information. Anyways, I called and talked to a gentleman who inherited the truck from his father in 1977. The truck sat in a barn majority of its life according to the owner. It made its first appearance in the early 90's where it was painted and tuned up. Shortly after it was parked up until October of 2014. He was selling the remaining items off his farm and listed the truck. I talked to him over the phone and since I am in Las Vegas, Nevada and the truck in in Bay City, Michigan I went with my gut and made him an offer. It was much lower then the asking price since I am buying sight unseen. He told me he would get back to me. Within a week he called and said come get it. I sent my friend who owns a trucking company to go get it and put it in my barn in Michigan. When I came home for xmas I decided I would go try to fire it up. My friend was able to drive it up on the truck and then back off but he said it ran rough. So, I dropped in new plugs and noticed 2 broken wires. I repaired the broken wires and she started right up and runs great. She blows a little blue smoke but I am hoping to drop some marvel mystery oil in each of the cylinders to loosen up a stuck ring. She also needs an oil change in the worse way. I will be back for a few months this summer where I plan on getting her on the road.
What I know... 1954 Chevy 3100 Hydramatic #'s matching odometer (works) Reads 2854 miles which means more then likely 102,854 miles Its been repainted and some crude body work done
Needs... 12 volt conversion Tires Shocks Interior redone Time and money for repairs
Here is a link to some pictures of the day my friend picked her up.
Thanks, I am switching to 12 volt for more reliable starting. My generator isn't working so, I figured this is the best time to convert it. One thing I noticed is that it looks like someone welded or used bondo on all the fenders. So, it looks like the rear fender and the bed are all one piece. Same with the lower part of the fenders in the front. I plan on getting it road worthy and using it as my daily driver. I plan on starting restoration on my first truck I ever bought which is a 1950 GMC 100 5 window.
Okay, we've got Matthew's '54 in the Gallery now. Hope to get some more story on the '50 GMC in the near future. He's got a nice video of the 850 Tractor, too.
Good story. Enjoy the read.
Look forward to your progress reports here and new pictures!!
Thanks, Peggy
~ Peggy M 1949 Chevrolet 3804 "Charlie" - The Stovebolt Flagship In the Gallery "We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give." -- Winston Churchill
UPDATE: This summer I was able to swap out the 6 volt system for a 12 volt system. Everything seems to be working but could definitely use a new wiring harness. I also, swapped out the leaky master cylinder. The master cylinder on the truck was for a 47-52 1 ton. So, I just bought one of those instead of re plumbing the lines for the correct 54. I ordered tires but ran out of time so, they will have to wait until spring when I get back to Michigan.
It was nice to meet you this summer. Ring me up when you get back this winter. I'm glad you were able to get your truck going before you left. Let the fun driving begin. Tom
FYI Watching your video, I noticed that the neutral safety switch, on the lower steering column is disconnected. Mine was disconnected also. When the switches go bad they would just tie the two wires together. The problem with that is, you can start the engine without the transmission being in neutral. All of a sudden the truck is moving because the transmission is already in a forward speed. Not Safe. Do you still have the push button starter switch above the headlight switch? After watching the entire video, I see that you still have the push button starter switch. I've seen some automatic trucks converted over to the keyed starter spring switch.
It's a good idea to remember to start it in neutral. Not only for safety but I think the transmission prefers it.
Thanks for pointing that out Jorb. I need to get that ordered and replaced asap. After putting a few miles on it. I didn't notice that jolt people described between shifts. Mine actually shifts rather smoothly.
