Inspiration: ’52 Chevrolet Carryall Suburban
Several automotive companies in the United States used the “suburban” designation to indicate a windowed, station wagon type body on a commercial frame. Chevrolet began production of its all-steel “carryall-suburban” in 1935. These vehicles were also known as the “Suburban Carryall” until GM cut the name to simply “Suburban.” Models with rear panel doors were designated “3106,” while those with tailgates were designated “3116.” In 1952, the Suburban came with either a tail gate or panel doors. The front bench seat was split, with two seats on the drivers side and a single seat on the passenger side, which slid forward for access to the rear two rows of seats. The second row was a “2/3” seat, requiring occupants to move past the front passenger seat, as well as the second row seats to access the third row. The design of the 1949 Suburban would go on to inspire the design of the dreadful Chevy HHR over half a century later. You don’t find these early Suburbans that often and finding one in decent shape is even more difficult. Today’s find is a Panel Door truck (3106) and was restored to a driver quality truck maintaining its original drivetrain that is said to run well. The interior looks pretty good from the photos but the seller says the headliner needs attention. Don’t expect to go anywhere quickly because these are geared kind of low limiting cruising speed to around 55 mph. We like it and would take a closer look to make sure everything is in order. Click here for the eBay auction.