With classic pickups remaining solid performers in the current market, it is no surprise that a vehicle like this 1951 Chevrolet 3100 Short Box has generated interest since it hit the market. Hiding below that aged exterior is a vehicle that is not only rock-solid but runs and drives. Returning it to a roadworthy state in the short term would not be a major undertaking, and the future options available to the owner are almost endless. They could retain it as an original survivor, treat it to a faithful restoration, or use it as the basis for a ratrod or custom build. It doesn’t matter which path they follow, the result should be a stunning classic. Located in Waukon, Iowa, you will find the Chevy listed for sale here on eBay. It has already attracted an impressive twenty-five bids, which have pushed the price to $6,100 in a No Reserve auction.

If you look closely at this old Chevy, you can get glimpses of its original Swift Red paint. The Pickup has accumulated its share of surface corrosion, and the panels show a few minor dents and bruises. However, the big surprise is its lack of penetrating rust. There are a few small spots visible in the lower rear fenders, but the buyer should address these with simple patches. The big surprise is the state of the lower cab corners, floors, and cowl. All appear to be as solid as a rock, and with a frame that wears little more than surface corrosion, this old Pickup seems to be structurally sound. The front and rear glass look okay, but the side glass is cracked. The original timber has gone from the bed, so the buyer will need to replace the temporary plywood that occupies that spot. Most of the trim appears to be present, and the overall impression is that this should be a straightforward and satisfying restoration.

It’s never a great surprise to open the doors of an unrestored workhorse like this 1951 Short Box to find an interior in desperate need of help. This Pickup is no exception, but the simple construction of these interiors makes their restoration a satisfying undertaking. Most painted surfaces now wear a heavy coating of surface corrosion, but dismantling the interior to clean and repaint these is not a difficult job. The shopping list will include new foam and a cover for the seat, while some pieces are missing from the dash. The wheel is cracked and missing its center, and the chrome surrounds on the gauges are corroded. Even if I didn’t touch the outside of this classic, I would go to town to return the interior to a factory-fresh state. I believe that this approach would provide an excellent contrast to the aged exterior.

While its lack of significant rust may be one of this old Chevy’s strong points, its overall mechanical health merely adds to its attraction. It isn’t clear whether the vehicle is numbers-matching, but its engine bay is occupied by a 216.5ci six-cylinder engine that should be producing 92hp and 176 ft/lbs of torque. Bolted to that six is a four-speed manual transmission. The owner stresses that this Pickup is not roadworthy but runs and drives. He says that the brakes require attention because you have to pump the pedal to get them working. There may be other tasks that the buyer will need to tackle, but it seems that the engine is in excellent health. The owner supplies this YouTube video of the Short Box running and driving, and its motor sounds as sweet as a nut. There is no evidence of any rattles or odd noises and no signs of smoke. The engine bay may benefit from a cosmetic refresh, but it appears the buyer won’t be spending money on any significant mechanical refurbishment work.

As the base for a project build, this 1951 Chevrolet 3100 Short Box looks like a beauty. Its originality and rock-solid status must make it a tempting proposition for anyone considering a faithful restoration. Retaining it untouched as an original survivor would also be a path worth considering, and either option would leave it as a vehicle that would turn heads wherever it goes. If I were to buy it, I would probably leave the panels and paint untouched and restore the interior, wheels, and bed. These would provide a striking contrast to the weathered paint and allow this to be a practical and comfortable vehicle. If you were to buy it, what path would you follow?