TASK-FORCE — THE NEW APPROACH

Chevrolet introduced its new Task-force range of half-ton pickups in 1955, with styling cues from the passenger cars running right through to the larger tonnage vehicles in a range that ran until 1959. The new Task-force line-up was another step up on its market-leading predecessors. Chevrolet was the first to offer a V8 engine option with its 265-cubic-inch (4.3-litre) motor. Chevrolet’s 3100 series of trucks enjoy a steady popularity among restorers, and an ease of modifying with larger V8 engines. Task-force vehicles boasted a bigger cab; doors that concealed the running boards; a beefed-up sedan chassis and, at last, 12V electrics. A further number of changes came with the 1957 model. These included a much more rigidly mounted rear axle, improved door safety locks, and wrap-around windscreens. GM stylist Chuck Jordan further changed the look of the pickup for 1957, adding a stylish cab interior with a dished steering wheel, echoing sedan styling, as well as the panoramic glass. The new bulged bonnet had two chrome additions that added to a very different-looking Chevrolet pickup, along with a new grille. For the 1958–’59 model year, the final year for this shape, the body received twin headlights and a number of cosmetic changes. American Chevrolet clubs generally acknowledge that the 1957 models are still the most popular to own. The threespeed transmissions were sometimes a little weak in their synchromesh, but, otherwise, they were usually regarded as a tough truck. Developed in 1941, the Chevrolet 235-cubicinch (3.9-litre) six was steadily improved, and gave little trouble if looked after, with an output of 140hp (104kw). A version of it was used in the first of the Chevrolet Corvettes. (Source: Jeff Koch — Hemmings Motor News)