What was the engine specs of the 1952 Chevy 3100?
The 1952 Chevy 3100 used the Thriftmaster inline-six: 216.5 cubic inches, about 92 gross horsepower, and roughly 170 lb-ft of torque, with a single-barrel Rochester carburetor and a 3-speed manual transmission.
Core engine specifications
The following figures cover the baseline configuration for the 1952 3100, with typical variations by trim and production run.
Note: The values listed reflect common specifications for the period and model; exact figures can vary slightly by vehicle and production year.
The core specifications are summarized below:
- Displacement: 216.5 cubic inches (3.55 liters)
- Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder engine (Thriftmaster/Stovebolt family)
- Power output: Approximately 92 gross horsepower at around 3,600 rpm
- Torque: About 170 lb-ft of torque (developed at low-to-mid rpm)
- Induction and fuel system: Rochester single-barrel carburetor
- Compression ratio: Approximately 6.5:1
- Transmission: 3-speed manual transmission (standard; column or floor shift depending on configuration)
In summary, this powertrain delivered durable, no-nonsense performance suitable for everyday work tasks, aligning with Chevrolet’s emphasis on reliability in the early 1950s.
Historical context and notes
V8 availability in the 3100 line
Chevrolet did not offer a V8 option for the half-ton 3100 trucks in 1952; the inline-six Thriftmaster was the sole engine choice for that model year, continuing the brand’s focus on proven, economical power for light-duty use.
Summary
Bottom line: The 1952 Chevrolet 3100 relied on a 216.5 cu in inline-six Thriftmaster engine, delivering about 92 horsepower and roughly 170 lb-ft of torque, with a single-barrel carburetor and a standard 3-speed manual transmission. These specs defined the truck’s practical performance and reliability during the early 1950s.
