1955 Chevrolet 3800 Long Bed Step Side Pickup

Description

In 1955, Chevrolet introduced their Task-Force trucks bearing a familiar resemblance to their newly redesigned passenger cars. These pickups were designed by Ned Jordan and boasted a fashionable wraparound windshield, hooded headlights, and an egg-crate grille. Unlike the previous Advance-Design models, the Task-Force trucks didn't feature traditional pontoon-style fenders, but rather a more modern integrated fender design. This generation of Chevy 3800 trucks featured a fully pressured oil system engine coupled with an open driveshaft in place of the previously used torque tubes. It was powered by a 235 cubic inch Thriftmaster inline-six engine, producing 123 horsepower. One of the notable advancements in the 1955 Chevrolet trucks was the introduction of a 12-volt electrical system, which replaced the older 6-volt. Additionally, 1955 was the only year that featured a 7-foot-long bed. The 3800, being a 1-ton truck, had a 137-inch wheelbase and was equipped with single rear wheels. Available in half ton (3100 model), three-quarter ton (3600 model), and one ton (3800 model) capacities with both short and long wheelbases, these trucks set a standard for durability and design, influencing American truck trends in the mid-20th century.

Highlights 

• A well-restored example finished in Black Cherry paint 

• Upgraded with a GMC 270 cu-in inline-six 

• Floor-shifted four-speed manual transmission 

• Bench seat trimmed in white vinyl upholstery with red cloth inserts  

• The chassis number (L255J009356) decodes as: 

  • L – 3800 series  

  • 255 – 1955 model year  

  • J – Janesville, Wisconsin, final assembly plant  

  • 009356 – Sequential production number beginning with 001001 

Features 

• Oak wood bed floor  

• Replacement fiberglass rear fenders 

• 17-inch steel wheels with chrome hub caps 

• 7.50 x 17 Power King tires 

Known Imperfections 

• Floorpans have had a little rust

Ownership History 

This 1955 Chevrolet 3800 Pickup was acquired by the consignor in 2008 and was refurbished over the next two years. Rust repair was performed, replacement fiberglass rear fenders, glass, and chrome were installed, and it was resprayed black cherry. It has been driven less than 5,000 miles since.