1947–1954
Advance Design
GM's first all-new postwar truck, launched June 1947. Sold as the 3100 (½-ton), 3600 (¾-ton) and 3800 (1-ton), with Thriftmaster and Loadmaster engines. A rugged, rounded classic that ran with minor changes into early 1955.
Our passion
We restore these trucks because we love them. Here's the story behind the classics we build parts for — from the earliest Advance Design haulers to the beloved Square Body.
General Motors was founded by William C. Durant on September 16, 1908. In 1909 GM acquired the Rapid Motor Vehicle Company, forming the basis of the General Motors Truck Company — the origin of the "GMC Truck" name, which first appeared on vehicles at the 1912 New York International Auto Show.
On November 3, 1911, Swiss racing driver and engineer Louis Chevrolet co-founded the Chevrolet Motor Car Company in Detroit with William C. Durant. The famous "bowtie" emblem first appeared in 1914 — said to be inspired by wallpaper Durant saw in a French hotel, or a stylized Swiss cross honoring Chevrolet's heritage.
GM's first all-new postwar truck, launched June 1947. Sold as the 3100 (½-ton), 3600 (¾-ton) and 3800 (1-ton), with Thriftmaster and Loadmaster engines. A rugged, rounded classic that ran with minor changes into early 1955.
Introduced in late 1955 (the "second series"). A big leap forward: 12-volt electrics, GM's first V8 (265 cubic inch), and smooth Fleetside beds. Trims included the Apache, Cameo, Viking and Spartan.
A new drop-center ladder frame let the cab sit lower, and independent front suspension gave an almost car-like ride. Offered in Fleetside (smooth) or Stepside (fendered) — GMC's "Wideside" and "Fenderside." The new 10/20/30 designations arrived (Apache 10, and so on).
A cleaner, more modern shape. Coil-spring trailing-arm rear suspension on many ½- and ¾-ton trucks greatly improved the ride, and the Cheyenne trim became an icon. One of the most sought-after classic truck platforms today.
The all-new "Rounded-Line" generation for 1973, with Scottsdale and Custom Deluxe trims and a 1981 aerodynamic facelift. Fleetside/Wideside and Stepside/Fenderside boxes. It ran 15 model years — and the Blazer, Jimmy, Suburban and Crew Cab carried on through 1991.
We stock a full line of restoration parts for 67–87 Chevy & GMC trucks, Blazers and Suburbans.
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