Hello all. I'm Jerry in SC and attached you'll see my 1953 Chev 3100 5-window. This was my grand fathers' work truck when he worked in the oilfields of Southern California. It is a "runner" today and since it's a West-coast truck, it's virtually rust-free. The trucks name is same as his original owner "Clyde" He has been owned by our family since it was originally purchased in 1953. I'm estimating he's about 95% original. Obviously in the past 72 + years some modifications have been made.
I'm planning in the future to do a complete rebuild of the original 216 Stovebolt with babbit rod bearings. I was wondering who has experienced re-boring the connecting rods and opening them up for shell bearings? Does anyone have a lead on a quality automotive shop that can do this type of specialty work? I've searched here locally and don't find anyone that can do this type of modification so I feel certain that I'll have to send them off.
I look forward to participating here. I know I'll be searching the site and researching the topics I'll need. Thanks to all.
There are some people on this forum who have converted 216 engines to insert bearings. Post your question about this in the Engine forum or the HiPo forum. Another Jerry, aka Hot Rod Lincoln, is the expert who will advise you.
1950 Chevrolet 3100 (Ol' Roy)
1939 Packard Standard Eight Coupe (The Phantom) | 1956 Cadillac Coupe de Ville (The Bismarck) | 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 coupe |1966 Ford Mustang (Little Red) | 1969 Pontiac GTO (The Dishpit) I 1979 Ford F-100 | 1976 Ford F-150 (Big Red) | 1995 Ford F-150 (Newt)
Welcome to Stovebolt Jerry. "Clyde" is a gem for sure! It's fantastic that you've kept your Grandfather's truck in the family and in such fantastic shape! I too have the privilege of owning my Grandpa's truck, a '51 3100 3-window, although mine has a long way to go to catch up to "Clyde".
As others have mentioned, you'll find an extensive collection of willing folks who will share their knowledge and help in the forums. Looking forward to seeing and hearing more about "Clyde" and any help you may need.
~ 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)
Welcome Jerry. It’s so great to see another green truck. Apparently green was the default color unless another choice was specifically ordered. I learned to drive in a green ‘51, now I have a green ‘50.
Welcome to the BOLT Jerry. Your '53 is truly a family heirloom, a Truck with that much history still tied to the original owners is a rare thing. I'm glad you found this site, as a good friend of mine is prone to say " I've never met a bad Bolter"..
As for your 216, there are still shops around that specialize in the babbit style engines. The key is finding one close by. Our resident expert Jerry (HotRod Lincoln) is probably the most knowledgeable member to ask on this subject.
Once you reach the required numbers of post you will be able to PM members with specific questions. Since your in SC you are a Southern Bolters. We have a great group of folks here are plenty of things to get involved in. Take some time and cruise the site. Make your self at home, and again welcome to the BOLT.
Last edited by TUTS 59; 08/28/20261:43 AM.
~ 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
Welcome Jerry. In case no one else has mentioned .... Nice truck!
TOJ (The Other Jerry) can advise on some interesting rebuild options for your 216 to make it a more modern, more powerful engine on the inside. He has projects in the works in his shop that are really very interesting that may be applicable to you. The cool part is that its still the original "engine" (um, block and head at least) .... Beyond that, I'll let Jerry 'splain further what possibilities exist.
Anyway, we're glad to have you. And your truck.
TOJ (The Other John )
~ John
A kid raised on Hotwheels, Matchbox and Tonka cannot be reasonably expected to own only one vehicle as an adult.
1949 Chevrolet 3804 In the Legacy Gallery | In the Gallery Forum 1973 IH 1310 Dump 1963 Kaiser M38A1 2001 International/AmTran RE3000 "Skoolie" 2014 Ford E-350 4x4 (Quigley)
Welcome Jerry! NIce looking truck. The Stovebolt is the place to be for info on these classic Chevy trucks. There are several others in SC so if you're inclined they meet up somewhat regularly.
Wayne 1938 1-Ton Farm Truck Stovebolt Gallery Forums 1989 Silverado 1996 Mustang GT convertible When I die, I hope she doesn't sell everything for what I told her I paid for it!
It's fantastic that you've kept your Grandfather's truck in the family and in such fantastic shape! I too have the privilege of owning my Grandpa's truck, a '51 3100 3-window, although mine has a long way to go to catch up to "Clyde". 
