Looking for some input. I recently got my 31 trucks original 194 Stovebolt running. Friends are trying to talk me into installing a small block. With the cab being constructed of wood, I just don’t think the wood framing would hold up powered by a small block. Thoughts?
VCCA members have access to a list of over 50 Technical Advisors who can help you with your car. It's worth the price of membership! While you can get a lot of information for free in this forum, sometimes the info that you REALLY need is only available from the right person. This is what "The World's Best Chevrolet Club" is all about!
That is a beautiful truck. You've got something that's getting rarer by the year. As someone who drives an unmodified truck myself, believe me you will turn heads when you drive that around!
You are correct that is not a correct 1931 1/2 ton pickup box. But, you don't have a 1/2 ton truck but a 1 1/2 ton closed cab truck with and express body. It could be the correct express body (box) for your truck that has been modified.
FYI, the 1/2 ton has a 109" wheelbase. The 1 1/2 ton trucks have either a 131" or 157" wheelbase. Yours has the 131" wheelbase.
While finding some parts for the conversion you are talking about others are made of unobtainium and then you open a barrel of rattle snakes at least 1 of which will turn around and bite you. Take it back to original. Tony
Nice truck! Anyone can hotrod a vehicle. All it takes is money. It takes dedication to keep one stock. What you have is a rolling piece of history. Don't be shy about making some changes for safety sake like putting brighter bulbs, adding turn signals and the like. I put a 6v alternator on my 38 but it's easily put back to the generator if my son (the eventual owner of the car when I turn in to plant food) wants to do that. I can just about guarantee that you'll be the only stock 31 Chevy at car shows.
VCCA Member 43216 Save a life, adopt a senior shelter pet. 1938 HB Business Coupe 1953 210 Sedan