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What is the wheelbase of a 1951 Chevy 3100?

The wheelbase of a 1951 Chevrolet 3100 is 115 inches (approximately 2,921 millimeters). This measurement defines the truck's basic footprint and influenced its handling characteristics for its era.


To put this in context, the 1951 3100 was part of Chevrolet’s Advance-Design era, a foundational period for postwar pickups. The stock figure is echoed across factory literature and restoration references, though individual vehicles may show variations due to modifications over the years.


Wheelbase details for the 1951 3100


The 1951 model year continued Chevrolet's postwar Advance-Design styling, and the 3100 half-ton pickup shared a common wheelbase across body configurations. The standard distance between the front and rear axles was 115 inches.


Before presenting the core data, consider these key facts about the wheelbase as it appeared in period literature and collector references:



  • Wheelbase: 115 inches (2,921 mm).

  • Applicable model: Chevrolet 3100 pickup, part of the 1951 Advance-Design lineup.

  • Variations: Some restorations or substitutions may feature altered wheelbases due to cab swaps, aftermarket chassis, or aftermarket bodies, but stock trucks from the factory used the 115-inch figure.


These points illustrate how the wheelbase functioned within the design and offerings of the era, and why collectors look for that 115-inch benchmark when authenticating or restoring a 1951 3100.


Context and implications


The 115-inch wheelbase contributed to the truck’s stability when loaded, its load-carrying capability, and its overall balance between ride comfort and maneuverability. For restorers, using the factory wheelbase as a reference helps ensure authenticity and compatibility with period parts and chassis components.


Summary


In summary, the stock wheelbase for the 1951 Chevy 3100 is 115 inches (2,921 mm). This standard measurement reflects Chevrolet’s design approach for the Advance-Design half-ton pickup and remains a key reference point for restoration and historical understanding.

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 much does a 1951 Chevy 3100 weight?


3,120 lbs.
The 3100 series trucks rode on 116-inch wheelbases and were equipped with 6 x 16 tires. The trucks measured 196.6 inches from tip to tip and the pickups weighed in at 3,120 lbs. They carried a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) rating of 4,200 lbs — or 4,800 lbs if you went with the beefier 6.5 x 16 tires.



What is the wheelbase of a 1955 Chevy 3100?


1955 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup Chevrolet's second-generation pickup debuted in March of 1955, as part of the new “Task Force” series that emphasized modern styling and durability. The redesigned 3100 half-ton rode on a 114-inch wheelbase and featured a stronger ladder-type frame.



What is the wheelbase of a 1951 Chevy truck?


The 1951 Chevrolet truck wheelbase is 116 inches for the 1/2-ton light-delivery models like the 3100 series. Other models had different wheelbases, such as the 3/4-ton commercial trucks which used a 125.25-inch wheelbase, and one-ton models which were available with a 137-inch wheelbase.
 
You can watch this video to learn how to determine the wheelbase of a vehicle: 25sLinesToGoYouTube · Apr 12, 2024

  • 1/2-Ton models: 116 inches (e.g., 3100 Series)
  • 3/4-Ton models: 125.25 inches
  • One-ton models: 137 inches 


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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.