Vin Number Check

[richlaw1]

does anyone know how to decode the VIN on a 55 to determine original color/trans/ etc?
for example, mine is M2550023608

[58APACHEE]

try looking at this, it might have it in there i think
https://www.gmheritagecenter.com/doc...2nd-Series.pdf

[mr48chev]

Paint codes are there but I didn't see where to find them. I did find an answer to another member's question on his front axle and alignment though.

[58APACHEE]

try this one seems more clear

http://www.bestintexas.com/cars/55codes.htm

never mind this is for cars

[mr48chev]

That is the other thing on Tri-5 Chevrolets there is so much on the cars that you really have to sort though to find the truck

[1project2many]

Howdy.

Your VIN follows the format for USA VIN for second series 1955 Chevrolet trucks.
M2550023608
No "V" = Six cylinder engine
M = 3200 (long bed 1/2 ton)
55 = 1955
O = Oakland CA Assembly Plant
023608 = 23,607 long bed half ton trucks built at Oakland before yours that year.

I have not yet found a source able to provide option <> VIN correlation for the TF trucks. Maybe someone here has more info. GM's Heritage Center said they couldn't get any vehicle specific information for Chevrolet that far back as the records just weren't available.

For color, you can look under voltage regulator, inside wiper cowl, under pieces or weatherstrip, etc for traces of original color. Maybe can trace VIN back to state issuing original registration to see what color was on reg. Engine and trans options would take some detective work but a guy with a little patience could swap all the pieces to convert a truck from three speed to four (or vice-versa) fairly easily. Locate date codes on the trans, block, rear axle, etc to determine which parts if any are not the correct age for the truck.

Here are some resources:
http://www.trifive.com/forums/showthread.php?t=34093
http://www.trifive.com/forums/showthread.php?t=57115
http://www.stovebolt.com/techtips/vin/vinbuster.html
http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com...sm0serial1.htm

[richlaw1]

thank you........
I see that it's a 3200 but I have a short bed
I believe they made 3200s with short bed in 55 and 56.......
can anyone verify this??

[1project2many]

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com...5ctsm0load.htm

3200 is 123" WB while 3100 is 114"WB. Someone has likely moved the cab to a short frame. Check the last link I provided previously to see where OEM serial #'s are located.

Edit: VCCA chat might be a good source of info.
http://vcca.org/forum/ubbthreads.php/forums/7/1/1958-60

[OrrieG]

The factory spec manual only shows the longer wheelbase for 3200. There are two vin locations on the frame. Both are on the top of the top rail. One is located just in front of the steering box, that sometimes get removed. A second in under the driver seat/step. Hard to read but you can get an impression using graphite and thin paper or chalk and a mirror.

[richlaw1]

thank you.........will do!