What is the wheelbase of a 1949 GMC truck?
In short, there wasn't a single wheelbase for all 1949 GMC trucks. The wheelbase depended on the model and payload rating, with three common factory lengths: 115 inches, 125 inches, and 137 inches.
These figures reflect the GMC Advance-Design era, when Chevrolet and GMC shared platforms and offered multiple wheelbases to match light-, medium-, and heavy-duty pickups. Variations could occur based on cab and bed configurations or special orders.
Wheelbase options for the 1949 GMC lineup
The following references summarize the standard wheelbase figures typically listed for 1949 GMC light- and heavy-duty trucks. Actual builds may differ by cab/bed setup or factory option packages.
- 1/2-ton trucks: 115 inches
- 3/4-ton trucks: 125 inches
- 1-ton trucks: 137 inches
These are the conventional wheelbase measurements for GMC's 1949 trucks, corresponding to the common payload classes used that year. Individual vehicles may vary slightly due to cab or bed choices and production variations.
Notes on variations
GMC often followed Chevrolet's engineering, so wheelbase options were shared across brands for the same payload ranges. However, regional options, custom orders, or different cab/bed configurations could shift the exact measurement by a few inches. For a precise figure on a specific truck, check the VIN/chassis plate or the original build sheet.
Summary
The 1949 GMC truck lineup offered three main wheelbase lengths—115", 125", and 137"—corresponding to 1/2-, 3/4-, and 1-ton configurations. The exact figure for a given vehicle depends on its model, cab/bed arrangement, and any factory options. When in doubt, verify with the truck's build documentation.
