Long Bed Value

[tom c.]

Hello. I'm new to this forum but, I have owned several antique vehicles in the past. I currently own a 1928 Ford AR, and a 1960 Mercedes-Benz 190SL. I am looking at a 1953 3100 three window, long bed pick up. The vehicle seems fairly solid and is advertised as "...runs and drives OK". I'll know more after I schedule a test drive. The biggest drawbacks seem to be some rust in the bed sides and braces. The truck also has four 15 inch wheels on the ground while it has two 16 inch 8 lug spares hung on the sides. I'm fairly sure that these trucks came with 16 inch wheels, so that tire/wheel combination presents at least one problem. It also raises the question of what lug pattern is used on the brake drums now on the truck.
Regardless of these issues, my question here concerns the relative value of the long bed version versus the short bed trucks. I understand the short beds are more collectable that the long bed trucks. I also realize that the 5 window is more desirable that the 3 window. I just haven't seen any documentation anywhere that quantifies these differences in relative value. If anyone can provide me with any info on the long bed vs. short bed issue, and the 3 window vs. 5 window issue, I'd appreciate the favor. Thanks.
Tom C.:cool:

[romeske1950]

First off, i can tell you that a 53 3100 was stock 6 lug, short and long bed, not 8. Not sure of the wheel size, but i can tell you on 3100s up to 52 they were 16 in. Also, i dont have documentation of any sort, but i can say about 3 vs. 5 window, it is sure nice to have those 5 windows, due to rarity, and also its a hell of alot easier to see out of. Gets kinda hot though down here in texas with that much more sunlight hitting you :cool: now im not sure about everyone else, but i would pay more for a longbed myself. ive seen less of them and would much rather have one than a shortbed.

[Rich-Md]

Here is a link that may be of some help.
http://www.classictruckshop.com/value_guide_manual.php
Also this is GMC Values.
http://www.classictruckshop.com/gmc_value.php
Chevy Truck Prices,
http://www.classictruckshop.com/chevy_value.php

Remember these are guides. Many trucks are worth much more.
AS the truck is upgraded ie; IFS, Disc breaks, V8's, Newer transmissions, paint and etc...etc... the value increases.

As far as the 3 window vs 5 window It is solely preference. They say the 3 window cab looks more like a street rod than a 5 window, The 5 window looks to be a family delux model. (You know a nice looking truck a farmer can take his family to church in and not feel bad about it). Although the 5 window is a somewhat more rare then the 3 window there are plenty of 5 windows to be found.

Yes, the long bed is alot more rare than the short bed. However, the short bed is much more desireable and has a better resale value. Also there is generally more used parts available for the short bed model.
romeske1950 is correct about the wheels. My 54 had 6 lug 15 inch rims and tires before I trashed the entire undercarrage and upgraded it.

IF you decide to buy the truck make sure you make it safe to drive. Always do the breaks first. I mean replace master and wheel cylinders and flush out the break lines. Then go for the other items you have in mind.
Best of luck.
Rich

[tom c.]

Thanks for your input on my Chevy truck questions. The truck I was looking at sold out from under me when the owner did not return my call for two days. So it goes. I'll continue my search for the right truck.
Thanks also for the value guide info. This will help me become more familiar with these vehicles as I search.
Tom:D