Glad to be a newbie on this forum to learn a lot about the 1953 I just purchased three weeks ago.
So far I know it has a 235 ci six-cyl out of a 1954 passenger car, converted to 12v, not sure when painted, Coker bias-plys, 3 on the tree, nice interior, no radio, guessing 4.11 rear. Had a lube job, drained trans & rear.
Added new fluids. Replacing VC gasket/ Old one fell apart in a dozen pieces, hence oil leaking. Does not smoke. Will drain coolant system & replace thermostat. Ordered an Assembly manual. Have a 48-53 truck shop manual. Will replace plugs & wires. Had generator rebuilt.
The truck has a little rust in the floor pan, but not a priority right now. It starts and runs fine, but leaks some oil. Does not appear to burn any. No smoking. Just changed the oil & air filter. Air filter is an aftermarket and not the oil bath. I have tinkered with cars for 60 years. Currently have a 31 Ford Model-A and a 64 Corvette.
Last edited by Peggy M; 06/28/20232:33 PM.
1953 Chevy 3100 I have recreated my Dad's old work truck with a 5 window. Photos
Welcome to the Bolt. Sounds lie a really nice project and you can find all the help you need right here. Take the time to sit down and check out the forums and tech tips among other things. See you around the garage.
Welcome to the Stovebolt madness. There is no cure!
Martin '62 Chevy C-10 Stepside Shortbed (Restomod in progress) '47 Chevy 3100 5 Window (long term project) ‘65 Chevy Biscayne (Emily) ‘39 Dodge Business Coupe (Clarence) “I fought the law and the law won" now I are a retired one! Support those brave men/women who stand the "Thin Blue Line"! Hug a cop! USAF 1965-1969 Weather Observation Tech (I got paid to look at the clouds)
Welcome to the ‘bolt! Please post some pictures as well. There are step by step instructions on how to post images on the left margin on this page. We’ll see you around the garage!
Last edited by Peggy M; 08/07/20239:35 PM.
Phil Moderator, The Engine Shop, Interiors and Project Journals
1952 Chevrolet 3100, Three on the Tree, 4:11 torque tube Updated to: ‘59 235 w/hydraulic lifters, 12v w/alternator, HEI, PCV and Power front Disc Brakes Project Journals Stovebolt Gallery Forum
That is one sweet looking truck. welcome to the "BOLT".
~ Craig 1958 Viking 4400 "The Book of Thor" Read the story in the DITY 1960 Chevrolet C10 "A Family Heirloom" Follow the story in the DITY Gallery '59 Apache 31, 327 V8 (0.030 over), Muncie M20 4 Speed, GM 10 Bolt Rear... long term project (30 years and counting)
If you don't like driving yourTruck, you won't drive yourTruck..| Living life in the SLOW lane
Those numbers are not the actual "head" casting number. I believe they are often referred to as the "sand casting" number used as the base for the specific head casting to be made from.
The actual "head" casting number is located on the top surface of the head, drivers side near center of head just outward of the valve cover.
Below is a link (original source credit given to Tim's Trucks) from another Stovebolt thread that provides a great deal of pictures and info on where to locate engine block/cylinder head casting numbers, casting date codes and original serial number placement.
Once you have all this information, there are other links (use the "Searching the Site" link in the forums left margin) that will help you identify what you actually have.
Let is know what you figure out.
Dan
~ Dan 1951 Chevy 3 window 3100 Follow this story in the DITY Gallery "My Grandpa Carl's Truck and How it Became Mine" 1966 Chevelle (Wife's Hot Rod) | 2013 Chevy Silverado (Current daily driver) US Army MSG Retired (1977-1998) | Com Fac Maint Lead Tech Retired (1998-2021)