PRICED-TO-MOVE 3100, STROKER 383 V8, AUTO, DUAL EXHAUST, DRIVES GREAT/LOOKS MEAN

1951 GMC 3100 Rat Rod Description

One of the things we like most about the recent "rat rod" phenomenon is that you never know what to expect. At a glance, this 1951 GMC 3100 pickup looks like a '50s custom, complete with a chopped top, but you might also think that it's a work-in-progress. But look under the hood or in the cab and you'll find beautiful workmanship and fresh components, all designed to make this a first-rate cruiser that dances to a different tune.
The look is familiar, yet when you chop the top, it takes on an entirely new personality. Finished in satin black primer, it's brutal and the chopped top exaggerates the rounded fenders' proportions. The result is a truck that demands attention but doesn't shout about it. Looking past the primer paint job, you'll find some nice metal work that suggests that the unfinished look was intentional, because it's not unfinished at all. This one was built on purpose. Doors fit well, the hood sits flush, and aside from a few dents and dings that were retained for authenticity, there's not much to complain about. The bumpers were painted to match, but things like the GMC grille and door handles were given a metallic charcoal finish that makes it stand out against the satin black primer the way chrome would against shiny paint. It's a cool look. The truck has obviously been lowered, so the bed floor was raised a bit and finished with a checkered flag motif that seems to suit the truck just fine. And don't worry, it's still just fine for hauling stuff.
Climb behind the wheel and it's totally different, starting with handsome green striped seat covers that are period correct but a lot more comfortable than you'd expect. There's more checkerboard on the floor and the door panels and dash were finished in green so it all works together. The original gauges were retained, although auxiliary dials were installed under the dash just so you get a more accurate view of the stroker motor that lives under the hood. The trick three-spoke wheel offers a color-matched GMC horn button and even the grille in the center of the dash was treated to a satin paint job. The original 3-speed manual shifter on the steering column was retained, although it now manages an automatic transmission. Nice, right?
The big news under the hood is definitely big: a 383 cubic inch Chevy stroker motor. With big block torque, it makes this GMC plenty quick, yet very streetable. Most of that comes from a well-tuned Edelbrock carburetor on a Weiand intake manifold, an HEI ignition system, and a mild cam inside. It's not detailed for show, but it fits the truck's personality perfectly and boy does it run! There's a big radiator up front, a set of Brodix valve covers, and stock exhaust manifolds that are low maintenance. Underneath, you get the aforementioned TH400 3-speed automatic transmission feeding the original rear end, and it's still running the original suspension, albeit assisted by lowering blocks to give it that awesome stance. The dual exhaust system features glasspack-type mufflers that sound great and disc brakes were fitted up front for safety. Modern Rally wheels with trim rings and smoothie hubcaps finish the look and they're wrapped in staggered 15-inch BFG rubber.
For the money, you probably won't get more cool than this. Trucks like this always attract a lot of attention and with the comfortable interior and strong running gear, it will always be a pleasure to drive. Call today!