If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a meticulously restored piece of classic American automotive history, the upcoming Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach 2024 auction offers a unique opportunity. A 1951 Chevrolet 3100 5-Window custom pickup, known as “Glossy,” is set to captivate attendees with its exceptional design and high-quality restoration.
Provenance and Restoration Journey
This striking Chevrolet 3100 was originally manufactured in December 1951 at the Chevrolet plant in St. Louis, Missouri. Fast forward to 2017, the restoration journey began, spearheaded by Rob and Kieran Hemminger, a skilled father and son team from Katy, Texas. Their dedication was showcased when the truck debuted at the Houston Autorama in 2019. Since its revival, “Glossy” has been driven just 850 miles, ensuring it remains in pristine condition.
Design and Aesthetic
The truck maintains its original charm with most of the original sheet metal intact, excluding the floors, firewall, front fenders, and bed sides. It features a perfectly straight body and exceptional panel fit, finished in a dazzling custom Midnight Blue Pearl paint that appears almost liquid, hence the nickname “Glossy.” It stands on polished Coy C5 forged wheels, measuring 18 and 20 inches, paired with Hankook Ventus tires for a bold stance.
Bespoke Features
From its LED lighting by United Pacific to its electronically concealed Legens fuel filler, every component of “Glossy” has been thoughtfully curated for both aesthetics and functionality. The bed combines dark wood floors with brushed aluminum slats, and the tailgate chains are wrapped in brown leather to prevent damage, reflecting the detailed craftsmanship.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the cabin is a blend of luxury and modern technology. The dashboard aligns with the exterior’s color scheme and includes custom modifications for a streamlined look. Seating and paneling are wrapped in two-tone brown leather, complementing the sophisticated interior. Modern amenities such as a Vintage Air system, Infinity sound setup with Bluetooth connectivity, and a Guard Dog Keyless Go system ensure a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
Performance Specs
Under the hood, “Glossy” is powered by a robust LM7 5.3-liter V8 engine from GM’s LS series, enhanced with a Brian Tooley racing cam and various high-performance fittings. This power is managed through a 4L60 automatic transmission connected to an Eaton posi-traction rear end, ensuring that it drives as beautifully as it looks.
Chassis and Handling
The chassis has been reinforced and houses a comprehensive TCI suspension system with components like power rack & pinion steering and RideTech coilover shocks. Wilwood disc brakes ensure stopping power matches the performance, adding to the truck’s reliability and safety.
Your Opportunity to Own
Are you interested? Check out the listing on the Barrett-Jackson Website to get more information!
This 1951 Chevrolet 3100 is not just a vehicle; it’s a testament to the art of restoration and customization, making it a must-have for any collector or enthusiast. Being marketed for the first time, with detailed service documentation included, it presents a rare opportunity to acquire a turn-key classic at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach 2024. Ready to make a statement on the road or as a centerpiece of any collection, “Glossy” could be yours—don’t miss your chance to claim this incredible piece of automotive art.