What is the wheelbase of a 1949 Chevy 3100?
The wheelbase of a 1949 Chevy 3100 is 114 inches (about 2.90 meters). This essential spec influences handling, bed length, and the feasibility of modern upgrades or replacements for restoration projects.
In practical terms, the wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles. For the 1949 3100, Chevrolet's half-ton pickup from the Advance-Design era, the 114-inch wheelbase sits at the heart of its traditional geometry, affecting everything from turning radius to suspension tuning and the fitment of reproduction parts.
Historical context
The 1949 Chevrolet 3100 belongs to Chevrolet’s Advance-Design generation, a postwar redesign that defined mid-century pickups. The wheelbase of 114 inches helped balance payload capacity with maneuverability, contributing to the model’s reputation for durability and straightforward maintenance.
Technical implications of the wheelbase
Wheelbase is a key determinant of a vehicle’s ride quality, stability, and turning circle. In a 1949 3100, the 114-inch distance between axles informs how the truck negotiates corners, how weight is distributed between the front and rear, and how compatible it is with period-correct or modern wheels, tires, and suspension components.
Restoration and modernization considerations
For restorers and buyers, knowing the wheelbase helps ensure correct fitment of bed panels, chassis hardware, and aftermarket parts designed for classic Chevy pickups of this era. The 114-inch wheelbase is the standard reference for most 1949–1952 Chevy 1/2-ton pickups, simplifying parts matching and restoration planning.
Summary
The 1949 Chevy 3100 uses a 114-inch wheelbase, a defining measure that shapes its handling, geometry, and restoration workflow. This dimension anchors the truck’s identity within the Chevrolet Advance-Design era and remains a critical datum for enthusiasts today.
What is the wheelbase of a 1949 GMC truck?
125.24 in
Wheelbase: 125.24 in.
How much is a 1949 Chevy 3100 worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $23,900 for a 1949 Chevrolet Series 3100 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1949 Chevrolet Series 3100 1/2 Ton at auction over the last three years was $143,000.
What is the wheelbase of the Chevy 3100 pickup?
Chevrolet 3100 Details
The 3100 is a half-ton, 116-inch wheelbase pickup truck originally powered by a 216 cubic-inch, 92 horsepower Chevrolet straight-six engineOpens a new window. The engine first appeared in 1937, and it was not phased out until 1963.
How long is a 1949 Chevy 3100?
Chevrolet Advance Design
| Chevrolet Advance-Design Series | |
|---|---|
| Length | 3100: 196.6 in (4,990 mm) (1947–1952); 191.3 in (4,860 mm) (1953–1955) |
| Curb weight | 4,598–7,985 lb (2,086–3,622 kg) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Chevrolet AK Series |
