"The Task Force range is a light and medium duty truck series by Chevrolet, their first major redesign since 1947. It was billed as being more stylish compared to the earlier Advance Design Series while still maintaining its rugged durability. GM redesigned their truck line for the second half of 1955. Chevrolet and GMC named their new series independently. The cousins were differentiated by running gear and interiors; Chevrolet used Chevrolet engines, and GMC used GMC inline sixes and Pontiac V8s. For the first time in GM history, trucks were available with optional power steering, power brakes, and V8s. A column-shifted three-speed manual transmission was standard, with an optional floor-shift four-speed manual or hydromatic automatic. The new body featured the truck industry’s first wrap-around windshield, and an optional wrap around rear window for Deluxe cab models. Headlights became integrated into the wings. The cab got taller, and in-cab steps replaced the running boards of previous models. A ‘step’ between the cab and rear wings aided access to items inside the pick-up bed.
This rust free, Ex-Californian 1957 Chevrolet 3100 Stepside Pick-up truck was subject to a complete rebuild and Resto-mod by Bill Stinnett, California, at the end of the 1990’s and since being imported to the UK in the early 2000’s it has been cared for and much improved. It had all new suspension which is lowered, a new four link rear suspension with a limited slip differential, a complete brake overhaul including fitting disc brakes, handbrake conversion and moving the brake servo to under the car, as was the battery, to keep the engine bay free from clutter. The custom, chromed engine is a 5.7 litre V8 unit mated to an automatic gearbox. Other work caried out which has improved the restoration include new complete exhaust system from the ceramic headers to the side pipes, new petrol tank, a new ‘four barrel’ 600 Holley carburettor and a custom dashboard with a rev counter and cigarette lighter/charging point. The custom blue cloth interior is complemented with a top of the range stereo system and electric windows. Custom painted in light blue with discreet pinstripes is complemented by the chrome wheels and a custom full-length designed weather pick-up cover. Supplied with a V5C registration document and a file containing invoices for work carried out in the UK, this lovely 3100 Stepside, Resto-mod has won a number of custom awards and is admired whenever it is taken out and displayed."