Custom cars are awesome, but what’s even crazier is custom pick-up trucks, especially when they are from the 1950s. A perfect example of that is this 1956 Chevrolet 3100 Sidestep, built by “Customs by Lopez”. While the Chevy 3100 was part of the Chevy Task Force, also known as the “Blue Chip Series” in GMC dealerships, it started out as a humble, but rugged work truck. However, it has been transformed into a mean, rubber-burning machine.

The original, 1956 Chevy 3100 had three engines available – the 235 cubic-inch (3.9-liter) Triftmaster inline-six with 140 horsepower, a 261 cubic-inch (4.3-liter) Jobmaster inline-six with 148 horsepower, and a 265 cubic-inch (4.3-liter) Taskmaster V-8 with 155 horsepower. These were mated to either a three/four-speed manual or a three-speed Hydramatic. Neither of the engine-gearbox combinations provided great performance, but they got the job done.

Ricardo and his team at “Customs by Lopez” took out the stock mill and put in a fuel-injected, 383 cubic-inch (6.27-liter) Stroker V-8, which puts out 420 horsepower. Power still goes to the rear through a smooth-shifting, GM TH350 automatic, and an upgraded cooling system, courtesy of US Radiators to keep everything cool. While it can definitely get up to speed in haste, the 1956 Stepside is meant to be used by his wife, Monik, as a cruiser, which is why it also features custom “Monik” logos, front and back.

In terms of chassis, the team started out with a stock chassis, but later switched to a 1978 Camaro front-end. Eventually, the rear sub-frame was completely replaced and the entire undercarriage has been upgraded with RideTech components.

“Customs by Lopez” works with “House of Kolor”, which resulted in the beautiful grey exterior finish. The halo headlights and LED taillights, including the tailgate strip, come from Dapper Lighting and Budnik wheels reveal upgraded Baer brakes behind them. Probably the most modern exterior touch is the GT-R-like door handles, which are flush with the doors.

The inside of the bed was finished in candy-apple red, after which it received a clear coat for a glossy effect. The bright red bed finish matched the bright red, custom interior, which features Mercedes-Benz seats with custom “Monik” badging on them. There is also a Budnik steering wheel, vintage switches, and a gauge cluster from Dakota Digital, which is what the Compton-based custom shop always uses.

When taking the classic Chevy truck for a drive, it quickly becomes apparent that it’s meant to be driven. Sean, from AutotopiaLA, notes that unlike most restored 1950s and 1960s trucks, which “wander around the road”, this one “feels on the road”. Ricardo notes that most builds, done by “Customs by Lopez”, are meant to be driven and this 1956 Chevy 3100 Sidestep is a great example of that. Then again, it’s meant for his wife so it better be sorted out. Swipe up for the full gallery and video of the truck.