What is the wheelbase of a 1956 Chevy short bed?
The wheelbase for the 1956 Chevy short-bed pickup is 115 inches, the distance between the front and rear axles. For context, this measurement applied to Chevrolet’s 1/2-ton Task Force trucks of that year and influenced the truck’s maneuverability, bed fit, and overall stance. This article outlines the key figures and what they meant for the short-bed model.
Key specification for the 1956 Chevy short-bed pickup
The following figure summarizes the essential dimensions that define the 1956 Chevy short-bed pickup's footprint.
- Wheelbase: 115 inches (2,921 mm).
- Short-bed length: 78 inches (6.5 feet).
- Approximate overall length: around 196 inches (about 16.3 feet), depending on cab and bumper configuration.
These measurements together describe the classic mid-1950s half-ton Chevrolet's compact, maneuverable build that balanced payload with ride quality.
Context and variations
During Chevrolet’s Task Force era (mid-1950s), the 1/2-ton pickups commonly carried a wheelbase around 115 inches for the short-bed configuration. While the 115-inch figure is the most consistently cited standard, published sources can show minor discrepancies depending on cab style, trim level, and whether a particular data sheet reflects a production variation. For anyone assessing a specific truck, the vehicle data plate or factory build sheet offers the most reliable verification.
Summary
In brief, the 1956 Chevrolet short-bed pickup features a 115-inch wheelbase, with a short cargo bed of about 78 inches and an overall length near 196 inches. These numbers reflect Chevrolet’s mid-1950s design priorities—compact footprint, capable payload, and a practical balance between maneuverability and interior space. Always confirm exact specs from the vehicle’s data plate or original documentation when evaluating a specific truck.
What was the wheelbase of the 1956 Chevy short bed?
Depending on model, buyers could choose from the usual wide range of transmissions; both the standard 114 and an extended 123-inch wheelbase were available.
What was the wheelbase of the 1959 Apache short bed?
Standard wheelbase was still 114 inches, giving a 6.5-foot bed, but a 123-inch wheelbase with 8.3-foot bed was optional. Also this truck has a 1000-square-inch wraparound windshield, 18-inch steering wheel, coil-spring seats, and face-level ventilation.
What is the wheelbase of the C10 short bed?
The C10 featured a 115-inch wheelbase for the pickup equipped with the 6.5-foot bed and a 127-inch wheelbase for models with the 8-foot bed.
How much is a 1956 Chevy truck worth today?
The price for a 1956 Chevy truck (specifically the 3100 model) varies significantly based on its condition, but generally ranges from approximately $8,800 to over $155,000. An average, good-condition truck is often priced around $29,650, while restored or modified versions can sell for much more.
Price breakdown by condition
- Low: Around $8,800 for trucks needing extensive work.
- Average: Roughly $29,650 to $34,505 for trucks in good, average condition.
- High: Over $155,500 for professionally restored or exceptionally well-maintained examples.
- Very High: Auction records show prices as high as $330,000 for rare and pristine models.
Factors that influence the price
- Condition: The overall state of the truck, including the engine, body, and interior, is a major price driver.
- Modifications: Customizations, such as modern engines, paint, or other upgrades, can increase the value.
- Rarity: Specific features or a desirable configuration can lead to a higher price.
- Mileage and History: Low mileage and a clean history can also increase the value, while accident or title issues will decrease it.
