The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk new owner...couple of questions...

hi...just bought a 1950 chevy half ton 3100...plan to drive it and tinker from there for now...a few questions to get started...i bought it to use it so first question...does anyone know of a hitch hauler that works for pulling a light duty trailer? so far i purchased and plan to replace all fluids, spark plugs, and intermediate fuel line...any other suggestions before i get it up and out on the road? thanks for all and any help...

Can't offer anything on a hitch but I think you have a good idea what to start doing. I would change all the grease fittings on the chassis and lube it. The old fittings might still be good but its a cheap fix and you never know if an old one is pluged. I put an in-line fuel filter between my pump and carb. Fram G-2. Check for gas leaks and check your wires for cracks or breaks. Check all the lights. Of course you will do that sort of thing on a regular basis after you have started driving it.
Good luck and have fun!

BUY A REPAIR MANUAL, most venders have them for a fair price.

I'm using a Drawtite.

I agree with going through the brake system. For your first project, consider going to a dual master cylinder, and all new brake lines. Getting these old trucks to go is fun, but getting them to stop can be a life saver.

thanks for the good info...i will definately be doing some brake work...any preference between ss lines or factory original??? down the road i plan to do some major suspension overhauling...

Avette4me---what model drawtite hitch did you use???

again thanks and im sure ill have many questions as i get going on this...

If you are going to do major suspension changes that include brake system changes, go through the brake system (hoses, standard-metal lines, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, and shoes/hardware. No need for SS lines and converting to dual master cylinder now if you might change your brake system substantially in the near future (and might end up with disc brakes).

Depending on what you plan for the future (and how soon), I'd next go into replacing worn parts in the front-end and steering parts (they are not expensive, they are easy to work on, and a tight front-end allows these trucks to drive remarkably straight and smooth).

It's a 5000#. Ordered it via a local dealer. I gave him measurements and he brought it in. It bolted up nicely.

Just another check you may want to make the ball/link couplings on the steering gear if they are covered with grease you may want to clean and check them it is not unusual to see the ball where it mounts cut through significantly. Hate to see you pulling or driving and have one of them break.