How long is a 1952 Chevy 3100?
A 1952 Chevy 3100 is typically around 195 to 214 inches in overall length, depending on the bed option. Short-bed models are usually about 195–200 inches long, while long-bed versions run closer to 210–214 inches.
Overview of the 1952 Chevy 3100 and Its Size
The 1952 Chevrolet 3100 was part of Chevrolet’s Advance-Design truck lineup, which offered more room and a two-tone aesthetic that defined postwar pickup styling. The overall length of these trucks varied primarily with bed length, as the cab remained relatively consistent across configurations. Understanding the length requires looking at the bed options Chevrolet offered for this model year.
Bed Lengths and How They Affect Overall Length
Chevrolet offered two main bed lengths for the 3100: a shorter bed and a longer bed. The bed length directly influences the truck’s total outside length, with the cab’s size staying largely constant between configurations. Here are the typical figures you’ll encounter when dating or restoring a 1952 3100:
- Short bed (approximately 6.5 feet or 78 inches): overall length roughly 195–200 inches (about 16 feet 3 inches to 16 feet 8 inches).
- Long bed (approximately 8 feet or 96 inches): overall length roughly 210–214 inches (about 17 feet 6 inches to 17 feet 10 inches).
In practice, exact measurements can vary due to factory tolerances, bumper configurations, and minor body alterations over the truck’s life. When assessing a specific vehicle—whether for restoration, resale, or parts—the precise bed length and bumper setup will determine the final exterior length.
Additional Considerations About Length
Beyond bed length, several factors can subtly affect the truck’s overall footprint. The front overhang, rear bumper and tailgate configurations, and any aftermarket modifications can shift the measured length by a few inches. For historians or collectors, these nuances help explain small discrepancies between source specs and a real-world measurement.
How to Verify a 1952 3100’s Length Today
If you’re researching a specific vehicle, consider these steps to confirm length:
- Measure from bumper to bumper with the truck on a level surface.
- Identify the bed type by inspecting the bed dimensions or the official VIN tag for the bed option code.
- Cross-check with spare parts databases or factory literature that correspond to the truck’s production window.
Accurate measurement is especially important for enthusiasts planning restorations or for buyers evaluating an original truck’s condition against its original specifications.
Summary
The 1952 Chevy 3100’s length is primarily dictated by bed length: short-bed models hover around 195–200 inches, while long-bed variants run about 210–214 inches. While these figures cover the typical configurations, exact measurements can vary due to factory tolerances and aftermarket modifications. When precise length matters—whether for restoration or compatibility checks—measure the specific vehicle or confirm with period factory documentation.
