The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk 261 Engine Option for a 1956 3100?????????

Did Chevrolet offer as an option for the 1956 3100 the 261 Engine??

no, just the 235 I6 or the 265 V8 for the half-ton

As I understand the difference, the 6 cyl. engines are two different series. i.e.

216, 235 & 261 early

194, 230, 250 & 292 later through about 1987

I may be wrong, but this is what I have come to understand..

TC

The 261 wasn't available until you got into the 2 ton trucks, in which case it was the standard engine. 1/2 through 1 1/2 ton used the 235.
Thirdcoast, you're pretty much on target, though it really can be broken down more. In the case of the 216/235/261, those can be broken down into 3 different series of engines, Low Pressure (216 and earlt 235), High Pressure/High Water Pump ('53 PG 235, '54 235 and 261), and High Pressure/Low Water pump ('55-'62 235/261).