The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 3/4 vs. 1/2 ton desirablity

I have a 56 3/4 ton which had a hydraulic dump which was really usable in it's day. However, it seems to me 1/2's are just nice as a runaround/driver. What is the difference in wheel base from a 1/2 to 3/4 and box length. I think the 3/4 box is 8'. This is a stepside and I think they were all stepsides at that time. The shorter box length sems to be most popular and sell better??? any help, ideas thanks, tom

There was a time when 1/2 ton was the desirable thing, but recently there has been more interest in 3/4 ton lately. 1/2 ton are geared faster, get better gas mileage and don't ride quite as rough as a 3/4 ton. I like 3/4 ton, but If you are worried about reselling, a 1/2 ton would probably be easier to sell later on.

You should be able to find dimensions here with a little looking.

I started out with 1/2-ton trucks but have now moved on to preferring the 1-ton trucks. If I were worried about the resale value of my toys I'd put my money in the stock market. Very few people make money playing with old trucks.

I agree with crenwelge, you'll probably find it easier to sell a 1/2-ton truck since that is what most people seem to want. But you're not likely to sell it to me.

If you want to make a small amount of cash selling an old truck, start with large amount....

reading between the lines, it looks like you may be trying to get rid of your truck and are looking for suggestions. As was mentioned, the 1/2 tons seem to sell easier as people want to either restore them or rod them. The 3/4 and larger are usually picked up by people that like old iron, may restore them, however usually use them as trucks.

Let me try this again 1/2 vs 3/4 ton: Does a 1/2 have a 71/2ft long box while a 3/4 ton has an 8 ft long box? Secondly, does the half ton have a shorter wheel base,any idea what the difference is between 1/2 and 3/4 ton wheel bases.
No, I don't plan on selling unless they take my drivers license as I'm getting a bit long in the tooth. thanks, tom

Are you talking Chev or GMC? GMC 1/2 tons came with either 114 or 123 1/4 Wheelbase. 3/4 ton came with 123 1/4 wheelbase only. 1 ton came with a choice of 114, 123 1/4 or 135 wheel base. Chev had only the short wheel base on their half tons through early 55. I don't know much about Chev 55 and later.

Thanks,I'm sure my GMC is the 123 1/4. Thus a short box would not likely work.. tom