Harley-Davidson wasn't in the habit of attaching their name to trucks back in the '50s the way they are today, but I don't think they would object to this fantastic 1956 Chevy pickup wearing their colors. Tastefully modified and expertly crafted, this pickup retains all the ruggedness and style that came standard with every Task Force truck, with a bunch of subtle upgrades that make it an absolute blast to drive today. First of all, bright orange wasn't on the palette in 1956 unless you were the power company buying 1000 of 'em. However, that doesn't meant it isn't handsome, especially when it is laid down over some incredibly straight sheetmetal. These were some of the first trucks to actually be styled instead of just engineered, and you can definitely spot some Nomad and maybe some Bel Air in things like the headlight hoods and front grille. All the chrome seems to have been freshened or replaced during the build, and those magnet Harley-Davidson badges on the front fenders look right at home. There's more Harley branding inside, where the stock bench seat has been reupholstered in handsome black cloth and vinyl with Harley-Davidson emblems stitched into the seatbacks. I love that this truck still offers four-on-the-floor, which really delivers a hot-rod feel. The slick V-shaped gauge pod remains, and the dash has been painted to match the body, so it's not too dark in there. Upgrades include a trio of auxiliary gauges fitted into the original dash, as well as an A/C system discreetly tucked underneath. A deep late-model steering wheel on a tilt column is easy to grab , and heavy-duty rubber floor mats keep that black carpet looking good. Power comes from a sweet-running 350 under the hood. At idle you can tell it's got a big cam in it, and it pulls hard out on the open road, running through all four gears with an eagerness that you don't expect from a pickup. It has been nicely dressed with plenty of chrome and polished aluminum, as well as more Harley-Davidson markings on the custom valve covers. There's a new compressor for the A/C and an upgraded alternator, and the original radiator keeps it cool. Block-hugger headers feed a great-sounding dual exhaust system with requisite Flowmaster mufflers that dump out under the rear bumper. Finished in satin black, the chassis is commendably clean, retaining the stock truck suspension, which means leaf springs front and rear. It also means that this one isn't just a pretty face; it can still work for a living when the need arises. Adding a traditional touch are a set of chrome Cragar mags with custom Harley-Davidson centercaps and modern BFGoodrich radials. Harley didn't commission it, but I bet they'd be pleased with the results. This bright orange pickup embodies all that's great about America, Harley-Davidson, and Chevrolet, delivering a unique driving experience that will bring a smile to any enthusiast, whether his passion runs to two wheels or four. Call today! This vehicle is located in our Atlanta showroom. For more information, please call (678) 279-1609 or toll free (877) 367-1835.
