Chevrolet 1533X2 30-cwt trucks

[Colin Alford]

In my spare time for the last couple of weeks, I have been attempting to understand the differences in the Canadian Chev MCP trucks, and to be able to recognize the differences in images.

While there have been various opinions on the correct ID of this truck, I believe it to be a 1543X2 with 10.50 x 16 tires built before serial number 1154305001 (translated to the 5001st model 1543 built in 1941).

While the axles, wheels and tires are missing, it has the widened fenders indicative of the fitting of 10.50 x16 tires, it has the remains of one of the unique headlights which were fitted to the early 1543X2 with 10.50 x 16 tires, it has the remains of the spare tire mount as fitted to these early vehicles, it has a complete cab which excludes an ID of 1541 (flat face cowl), or 1542 (windshield cowl).

We can see the (upside down) bumper with attached Extension - front bumper frames, which is missing the holes for the Guard assembly, radiator crash (which is correct as these were not fitted until after serial number 1154305001), and this bumper also doesn’t have the large holes near the ends for the Reflector and Bracket assembly which were only fitted between serial numbers 1154305001, and 3154300001 (the first vehicle in 1943).

To me, the only obvious modification performed in-theatre, is the addition of the sand-mat holders on the fenders.

[Colin Alford]

To my eyes, this vehicle is also a 1543X2 with 10.50 x 16 tires built prior to serial number 1154305001. Most of the ID features are the same as those listed above. The obvious in-theatre modifications are the bars attached across the driver’s door, and the chopped cab.

The bonus of these images are the missing front bumper which seem to be the best images I have found which show the area behind the raised front bumper as fitted to 1543X2 and 1533X2.

[Colin Alford]

I couldn’t find my “Factory Photos CD”, so I borrowed this album for the weekend.

While the 4 x factory photos of the 1533X2 have been shared numerous times, in the subsequent posts, I will provide a bunch of close-up images that may assist in ironing out some of the details of these vehicles.

[Colin Alford]

First 5 images

[Colin Alford]

Here are the next 5 close-ups

[Colin Alford]

Here are the last 5 close-ups from the 1533X2 photos.

[Colin Alford]

Here are 2 x close-ups from the 1543X2 section of the album showing the configuration of the left side of the transmission showing the tire pump (note lack of vertical control rod as would be fitted to a CMP), and speedometer adaptor (showing the connection to the rear axle shifter).

I have also included an illustration from CC60L-HB1 of the same area to assist in identifying parts.