Things I’ve learned after 5000 miles of driving my 54 Chevy 3100:
1. The Chevy truck is a true classic, is fun to drive, and can hold it’s own on the modern highway. Of course, you already knew this!
2. The 235 engine modifications, with emphasis on maximizing low-end torque, will make it into an economical cruiser that is great to drive on the modern highway.
3. Full rotational balance, 261 grind cam, full-flow filter mods, drilling/tapping the crank for a SBC H/B bolt, and tapping the front main cap so you can R&R the timing cover without pulling the pan, make life with a 235 easier.
4. Carter/Weber dual carbs on an Offenhauser intake, with a fuel pressure regulator set at 3.5 psi, work flawlessly. Mileage averages between 18-20 mpg.
5. Adding the .72 OD T5 transmission, makes the old Chevy truck a great cruiser. My NWC T5 has run/shifted flawlessly running 90W gear oil.
6. The Camaro diffs are 62” wide, are cheap and the 3.42 R&P, which is quite common and inexpensive, is a good 5 lug on 4-3/4 donor diff.
7. Front and back 15X7 rims with either 3-5/8 or 4” backspacing will work with 235/70/15 tires.
8. Front disc brakes are mandatory on the modern highway with an adjustable proportioning valve.
9. Sway bars are worth every penny. The Camaro rear bar will work with only drilling two holes in the AD frame and flipping the bar to the top of diff.
10. The aftermarket front bars bolt on through existing holes in the AD frame.
11. The adaptor plate mounted “early” 216-235 water pump will eliminate overheating issues and allow you to run a 6 blade fan.
12. An Ignitor I from Pertronix, eliminates the points and is an easy install.
13. A/C is nice but with the cowl vent open, split back window open you’ll get plenty of air movement. I rarely have to use the A/C.
14. Cab wind noise at 70 mph is compounded by over-window S/S covers and the mirrors.
15. Straight axle ride is harsh on pot holes….but straight as an arrow and offering good feedback at cruise speeds. Gas shocks are a must.
16. Upgraded head, tail and especially brake lights are a must. 4” LED’s and LED turn signals are cheap insurance.
17. Use the best (Steele) windshield gaskets the first time!
18. Cherrybomb glass packs will be quiet at idle and sound like a chain gun after 2300 rpms. Mount them well behind the cab.
19. You can’t have too much sound/heat insulation in the cab.
20. Take your car to the car/truck shows. About 60% of the folks that come by, have a history with the AD Chevy truck, and you’ll make some great friends. Have some cards printed up with the “Stovebolt” URL….many will be in the middle of a build and never been to the site. I made “tear-offs.”
21. And when you win the “People’s Choice” awards…..try not to gloat too much as the Corvette guys scratch their heads and grumble….”it’s only an old truck.”
I’ve tried to throw out some things I’ve observed over the past year. I’ve moved onto another build but my 54 Chevy truck will always be my favorite. Drive on!!!!
