Light Commercial Vehicles Association
Two LCVA Articles about
Advance-Design Trucks
1955 1st series
• All series of trucks had open drive shafts instead of a torque-tube (enclosed driveshaft) - this is the first year for an open driveshaft (no torque tube, enclosed driveshaft) in the 3100 1/2 ton trucks.
• The spring mounts on the rear axle were different from the 1954 location.
• Chrome plated, cast metal series/model emblem on sides of hoods changed from the style used in 1953/1954.
• The front hood-emblem is the same as used in 1954.
• Same "bull nose" grill as used in 1954; but, this year the entire grill was painted Waldorf White, with black inner bars. The chrome grill had Waldorf White inner bars.
• Last half-year that Chevrolet trucks used the six volt negative-ground electrical system.
• Serial #'s, H 1/2 ton, J 3/4 ton, L 1 ton, etc.
1955 1st series
GMC New Design Trucks - 1947-1955
• From 1939 and up, the "standard" GMC six cylinder was a high pressure insert bearing engine - initially 228 and 248 cubic inches (which became standard on 1/2 ton trucks in 1954).
• 80 psi oil pressure gauge throughout the New Design series
• The GMC with six-volt electrical system uses a positive electrical system, except for the V-8 equipped trucks in 1955, which were 12v negative ground.
General Motors Canada
• Almost all Canadian built GMC pickups prior to 1953 used the Chevrolet 216 engine, not the 228 and 248 GMC type placed in U.S. trucks.
• However, a Canadian Chevrolet truck equipped from the Canadian factory with the larger GMC 228 and 248 was called the "Maple Leaf" (until 1950).
Resources
Classic Parts (Chevy Duty)
Jim Carter Antique Truck Parts
The Resto-Rod Shop
Light Commercial Vehicle Association - January/February, 1984