Does anyone produce a correct (fabric-insulated) wire harness for the 1953 model 3100 trucks? I have been unable to find one, and I don't really want to have to buy 35 rolls of wire to make my own. Any help greatly appreciated!

Try Rhode Island Wiring Service, Inc. They do a lot of work with cars/trucks with this type wiring. I got my 1931 harness from them. They do list your year/model. Their website:

http://www.riwire.com/

Somebody back me up here. Didn't 53 have the first "plastic" wire?

I was under the impression plastic was for 12 volt, and the cloth covered stuff for 6 volt… but I'm usually wrong on stuff like this...

Thanks for the lead Oldiron. I'm still not positive whether I need plastic or fabric-insulated wire; will need more research.

OK, I checked it out. The early 53 Truck was cloth covered wire. The late 53 Truck used the plastic covered wire.

What is the serial number break between early and late '53 trucks?

What wire was in your truck when you got it? Cloth or plastic?

When I bought the truck, it was about 75% done. There is a brand new plastic-insulated wire harness in the truck, put there by the former owner. I'm trying to figure out what is correct. Last 6 digits of VIN are 021143, which tells me it may be right on the line between "early" and "late" in the '53 model year.

The early/late division would depend on the assembly plant. and how many cars were assembled at that plant. Where was your truck assembled?

The truck was assembled in Atlanta (Lakewood).

I don't have the 1953 production numbers but in 1952 the Atlanta plant produced 15,298 3100 series trucks. !952 was a low production year and more were made in 1953. Going by that I would say your 1953 is a late model.
The engine blcck and transmission case is dated, one or the other or both is original would give a clue....also the cylinder head.
When was the change over? I have the info. some place but can't find it.

Is the '53 wiring harness the same for the '52?