VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Trucks and Vans '53 Chevy 2 ton Flatbed

I just acquired (eBay) a 1953 6100 Flatbed that I'm going to restore. It's in really good shape now, but I'm having trouble figuring out:

1- What factory colors were available on the 2 tons?
2- What color were the wheels painted? Same as the body?
3- Will a late 261 engine pretty much drop right in?
4- Is there any way to raise the gearing? Overdrive unit?
5- Anyone know a good source of parts for the big trucks? Need to replace brakes.
6- Is there a 12 volt generator available that looks like the 6 volt?

It's got a factory air brake set up on it for some trailer it used to pull. I'm taking it off and if anyone wants it let me know.

Mine is only a 1/2 ton but I get parts from Jimmy Carter. They are strictly truck parts.

Carters is a good source. http://www.oldchevytrucks.com/

favorite colors on big trucks red,dark green,dark blue all wheels black.
Al

A 261 will drop in with a few items needing attention. The front motor mount holes may need to be drilled in the front plate. The water pump & fan may need to be addressed so the pulleys line up and the fan is in the proper position. Many of the 261's also used a different thermostat housing so that may also need to be changed.
You could add a brownie auxiliary transmission to get a higher final gearing. Your truck probably has a 2 speed rear end and the availability of high gear ratios doesn't exist or at least very easy. You could change complete rear end but that has many issues. You could also find a Clark 5 speed that has a 5th gear OD, but they can be tough to find also.
I know that many of the brake parts are available from NAPA.
12 Volt Delco generators are available. You will want to do more research if you want to change from 6 Volt to 12 volt.

12 colors were available (standard and RPO) Ditzler/PPG and Dupont.

Just about any color or color-combination could be special-ordered.

[CLICK] Modern paint codes for 1953 Chev truck exterior

- Lonnie

Hello, I sent you a private message. Can you tell if your truck ever a roadtractor ?