? About the 55 Chevy Cameo - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

GABE310 · 10-20-2003, 02:14 PM

I don't know much about the 55 Chevy Cameo, but a buddy of mine has one for sale. I would like to know if they came longbed and shortbed? This truck is complete no rust, body is straight, runs good, but need to be restored. What is the going rate on these trucks?

rico_bob · 10-24-2003, 06:56 PM

Man, sell your kids, divorce the wife, shoot the dog and pawn off the rest of your toys!

WHAT IS A 55 CAMEO WORTH? You are not serious are you? If it is original and running ..... It is worth every penny the guy wants! If he doesn't know what to ask .... Then he has no business owning it!

Rough as it may be, it is still worth at least a grand! But if it is in California it has to be worth at least 5 times that out there!

Put it on ebay with a large reserve ... and see where it gets to!

Cameos (series 3124) were all 114-inch wheel based 1/2 ton pickups with a short bed which had fiberglass side panels and a fiberglass tailgate cover. They also came with a special rear-pan bumper arrangement, plus a hidden spare tire compartment, The cabs all have stainless trim around the cab and special two-tone upholstery. Plus many other amenities not found on other 3000 series (1/2 tons)!

BUY IT YOURSELF and restore it!

My two cents worth. rico_bob

www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com

70 Jimmy · 10-31-2003, 10:44 PM

If he wants to sell it, post it with the price of a comparable short bed big window deluxe cab X2 and that will be a good ball park.

rico_bob · 11-26-2003, 01:58 AM

Is it still for sale? I have a buddy in CA who might want to buy it!
email me: rico_bob@hotmail.com

DennyB · 11-26-2003, 11:35 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by rico_bob
.......

BUY IT YOURSELF and restore it!

My two cents worth. rico_bob

www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com

Good advice!

DennyB · 11-26-2003, 11:38 AM

BTW, IMO a complete straight running cameo is worth a minimum of 3 times what a compairable stepside would be worth.
That is if its a "original" documented cameo.

GABE310 · 11-26-2003, 05:15 PM

My buddy wants $6,000 for it, because that what he has into it. If I can recall it is a 3100. He called me Monday and asked if I was still intereted and to make him an offer. He said he needs the money. Let me know what you guys think.

Thanks

DennyB · 11-26-2003, 07:58 PM

If it were me and I had the cash I would probably buy it.
Although it is hard to say without seeing it first.
can you post lots of pics?

rico_bob · 11-26-2003, 08:43 PM

Ok! Here we go Again!... Gabe, Be careful now. First you say this is a 55 Cameo. But in the last reply you make the statement the seller said he thinks it a 3100?

The numbers on the frame or door post are going to be very key in determining whether this is indeed a Cameo. Get them so you can verify this is a true Cameo. Could be a copy, and thus, not worth as much on the market.

I am suspect of the fact that he told you it is a 3100. Because a 3100 is the Model number of a short wheel-based 1/2 ton rated truck. The Cameo was given the Model number of 3124. The number 3124 was part of the front fender side emblems.

And for some of you this may come as a surprise .... BUT yes, there were a few, granted only a very few, Cameos that came with a small back window in the cab.

Again, let's get the numbers and run them - and like Denny said "let's see lots of pictures".

In the meantime, keep you hand on your wallet, and keep the guy on the string until we figure this out!

Why do I do this? I guess I just love these trucks too much? LOL!

my 2-cents worth as usual....rico_bob

GABE310 · 12-02-2003, 04:47 PM

I took some pictures of the truck. I took a good look at the truck and it need to be restored my buddy started to take the dash apart. The vin# is VH255L016166 if that helps. He said the only thing not original id the alt anf valve covers. everything else is original.

GABE310 · 12-02-2003, 05:02 PM

I tried to post pictures, but it did not work. If you would like to see the let me onw I can e-mail them to you.
Thanks

ShamrockCustoms · 12-02-2003, 07:36 PM

send them to me, i will post here......

shamrockcustoms@yahoo.com

GABE310 · 12-03-2003, 04:21 AM

pic

GABE310 · 12-03-2003, 04:24 AM

pic# 2

GABE310 · 12-03-2003, 04:29 AM

Finally figure how to got them posted.

*Slams_58* · 12-03-2003, 10:07 PM

whats a truck like this worth? there is one in town here that may come up for sale only this on has a newer black paint job on it

rico_bob · 12-05-2003, 12:47 PM

Here is some more Cameo information to help verify that you have a "true" Cameo! rico_bob

Gabriel,
Thanks for contacting us at Rico's Rods & Relics! I will be glad to help you on your classic truck project.
Here is some good information that I have found regarding the VIN number you have:

VH255L016166
The first letter "V" indicates this truck came from the factory as a V-8 (in 1955 it would have been a 265 Cubic inch small block engine). the "H255" indicates this truck was a 1955 short wheel base (114") ½ ton. The "L" indicates this truck was built in the Los Angeles Plant. However, all the Cameo fiberglass bed parts were produced in the Corvette Plant in Ohio and shipped to L.A. for final assembly. The numbers 016166 indicate that this truck is production number 16,166.

Now there were not that many Cameos (16 thousand) built. The production number is an indication of all the inventory built in 1955. "An interesting note is that Cameos had no special V.I.N. designation, even though they carried the 3124 Model Identification" (NOT found on the front fender emblems until 1957 Model)

"If you are into originality the above will tell you the exactly where your truck was assembled. Aside from this, the original front motor mounts in an "original V-8" were riveted to the frame which is hard to duplicate in a "Bogus" V-8 conversion." Source: Identifying 1955-1959 Trucks, quote from http://www.55-57chevys.com/coccc/sho...s/t5559/tl.jpg

Other helpful tips: Check the frame V.I.N. number (located on the top of the frame rail driver's side near the upper shock mount bracket) GM stamped the V.I.N. again here. This number should match the V.I.N. number on the small blue and white (or silver) tag on the drivers door post.

If it is a true Cameo, it should have bed sides that do not have bolt holes in the side of the steel bedsides (if they do, then it is a conversion), as Cameo bed sides were only bolted on at the top. In addition, be sure all the bed parts are intact, like the fiberglass tailgate cover, the bumper ends, the spare tire carrier and filler panels between the back of the cab and the fiberglass bed side.

Cameo cab interiors had special seat covers, came with arm rests, and had a white headliner and white rubber gasket (as options not available on regular trucks) Dash knobs were typically chrome, the cab may or may not have a "big rear window" (panorama view option) The big window was standard on Cameos, but a small window could be "special ordered" if desired by the buyer.

The exterior of the cab may or may not include stainless trim around the window frames and glass frames and division bars could be stainless (polished SS not chrome). Beginning in 1957, the front fender emblems would have the model identifier of 3124.

The front bumper would be stainless steel and may or may not have the optional "bumper guards". There also should be a small "V" emblem on the fender (1957=door) to indicate this truck came with a factory V-8 engine. My two cents worth, rico_bob

Rico's Rods & Relics - "Treasure the Ride in Pride"
www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com

DennyB · 12-05-2003, 10:06 PM

Shawna,
Thats a cool loking GMC.
I didn't know that they came with a fleet bed?
Perhaps Rico can shed some light on that.
I've always liked the GMCs front end!

GABE310 · 12-08-2003, 04:34 PM

I want to thank everyone especially Rico_Bob for all your input on my question. After taking a good look at the truck and the info Rico_Bob gave me it looks like the truck was made into a Cameo. It has bolts holes inside of the steel bedsides. So i'm going to pass on this truck.

Norselander · 12-11-2003, 07:41 PM

The GMC SC is a rare bird. If you don't care for the front wrap, Chevrolet parts will bolt on... but hang onto the GMC piece -- they are becoming hard to find.

All things being equal, in their day the GMCs were considered to be the better of the two GM names: a big chrome grille designed to emulate that of the Cadillac and the larger optional Pontiac V8 motor. I6s were bigger too (270CID).

---

An original Cameo bed might be reason enough for buying one of these trucks since it is the significant difference between the stepside and the Cameo. Check to make certain that the bumper is made up of 'hard parts' and that the spare carrier exists.

Good luck!

-D

BTW, check here for more info -- http://www.1955gmc.com/

rico_bob · 12-18-2003, 11:15 PM

So then... Is this 55 Cameo dupla still for sale then Gabe???

rico_bob · 12-18-2003, 11:21 PM

Denny B... GMC called their version of the Cameo by the name of "Suburban Carrier". And Norselander has added one of the best GMC Carrier links in his post! Remember also that Cameos stopped being built mid-year 1958. Too expensive to build compared to steel fleetside bed sides that GM began stamping out in 1958. There were about 1,400 Cameos built in 1958 the last year they were produced. My two cents worth! rico_bob

GABE310 · 12-19-2003, 10:18 PM

My friend said he was going to hold off on selling the truck. He's looking to trade it for a 67-68 Camaro. So if someone is interested let me know.

10-20-2003, 02:14 PM	#1
GABE310 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: SOUTHERN,CA Posts: 429	? About the 55 Chevy Cameo I don't know much about the 55 Chevy Cameo, but a buddy of mine has one for sale. I would like to know if they came longbed and shortbed? This truck is complete no rust, body is straight, runs good, but need to be restored. What is the going rate on these trucks? __________________ 68 CHEVY SWB 95 HARLEY DAVIDSON NOSTALGIA 68 CAMARO CONV 65 CHEVELLE CONV 39 CHEVY CABOVER

10-24-2003, 06:56 PM	#2
rico_bob "Treasure the Ride" Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Mid Michigan, Harrison Michigan, USA Posts: 682	Whoa! '55 Cameo? A diamond in the rough! Man, sell your kids, divorce the wife, shoot the dog and pawn off the rest of your toys! WHAT IS A 55 CAMEO WORTH? You are not serious are you? If it is original and running ..... It is worth every penny the guy wants! If he doesn't know what to ask .... Then he has no business owning it! Rough as it may be, it is still worth at least a grand! But if it is in California it has to be worth at least 5 times that out there! Put it on ebay with a large reserve ... and see where it gets to! Cameos (series 3124) were all 114-inch wheel based 1/2 ton pickups with a short bed which had fiberglass side panels and a fiberglass tailgate cover. They also came with a special rear-pan bumper arrangement, plus a hidden spare tire compartment, The cabs all have stainless trim around the cab and special two-tone upholstery. Plus many other amenities not found on other 3000 series (1/2 tons)! BUY IT YOURSELF and restore it! My two cents worth. rico_bob www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com __________________ If you think you can you're right. If you think you can't you're still right. Trucks: '56 SWB; '57 SWB; '63 C-10 Current projects: 1963 Long Fleetside for the wife! '56 for the daughter. Visit us at: www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com Last edited by rico_bob; 10-24-2003 at 06:58 PM.

10-31-2003, 10:44 PM	#3
70 Jimmy aka Crusher, Crushergmc Join Date: Mar 2000 Location: Oregon Posts: 1,834	If he wants to sell it, post it with the price of a comparable short bed big window deluxe cab X2 and that will be a good ball park. __________________ "KEEP IT DOWN!" 70 Jimmy 454 2wd 56 GMC Big Window "It's funny till someone gets hurt, then it's freakin' hilarious"

11-26-2003, 01:58 AM	#4
rico_bob "Treasure the Ride" Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Mid Michigan, Harrison Michigan, USA Posts: 682	Is it still for sale? I have a buddy in CA who might want to buy it! email me: rico_bob@hotmail.com __________________ If you think you can you're right. If you think you can't you're still right. Trucks: '56 SWB; '57 SWB; '63 C-10 Current projects: 1963 Long Fleetside for the wife! '56 for the daughter. Visit us at: www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com

11-26-2003, 11:38 AM	#6
DennyB Led Sled! Discs R 4 ME! Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Toms River, NJ, USA (Transplanted Hoosier) Posts: 7,327	BTW, IMO a complete straight running cameo is worth a minimum of 3 times what a compairable stepside would be worth. That is if its a "original" documented cameo. __________________ "Never ride faster than your Angel can fly" I.M.O.M,W,J&C Patriot Guard Rider

11-26-2003, 05:15 PM	#7
GABE310 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: SOUTHERN,CA Posts: 429	My buddy wants $6,000 for it, because that what he has into it. If I can recall it is a 3100. He called me Monday and asked if I was still intereted and to make him an offer. He said he needs the money. Let me know what you guys think. Thanks __________________ 68 CHEVY SWB 95 HARLEY DAVIDSON NOSTALGIA 68 CAMARO CONV 65 CHEVELLE CONV 39 CHEVY CABOVER

11-26-2003, 07:58 PM	#8
DennyB Led Sled! Discs R 4 ME! Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Toms River, NJ, USA (Transplanted Hoosier) Posts: 7,327	If it were me and I had the cash I would probably buy it. Although it is hard to say without seeing it first. can you post lots of pics? __________________ "Never ride faster than your Angel can fly" I.M.O.M,W,J&C Patriot Guard Rider

11-26-2003, 08:43 PM	#9
rico_bob "Treasure the Ride" Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Mid Michigan, Harrison Michigan, USA Posts: 682	Ok! Here we go Again! Ok! Here we go Again!... Gabe, Be careful now. First you say this is a 55 Cameo. But in the last reply you make the statement the seller said he thinks it a 3100? The numbers on the frame or door post are going to be very key in determining whether this is indeed a Cameo. Get them so you can verify this is a true Cameo. Could be a copy, and thus, not worth as much on the market. I am suspect of the fact that he told you it is a 3100. Because a 3100 is the Model number of a short wheel-based 1/2 ton rated truck. The Cameo was given the Model number of 3124. The number 3124 was part of the front fender side emblems. And for some of you this may come as a surprise .... BUT yes, there were a few, granted only a very few, Cameos that came with a small back window in the cab. Again, let's get the numbers and run them - and like Denny said "let's see lots of pictures". In the meantime, keep you hand on your wallet, and keep the guy on the string until we figure this out! Why do I do this? I guess I just love these trucks too much? LOL! my 2-cents worth as usual....rico_bob __________________ If you think you can you're right. If you think you can't you're still right. Trucks: '56 SWB; '57 SWB; '63 C-10 Current projects: 1963 Long Fleetside for the wife! '56 for the daughter. Visit us at: www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com

12-02-2003, 04:47 PM	#10
GABE310 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: SOUTHERN,CA Posts: 429	vin # I took some pictures of the truck. I took a good look at the truck and it need to be restored my buddy started to take the dash apart. The vin# is VH255L016166 if that helps. He said the only thing not original id the alt anf valve covers. everything else is original. __________________ 68 CHEVY SWB 95 HARLEY DAVIDSON NOSTALGIA 68 CAMARO CONV 65 CHEVELLE CONV 39 CHEVY CABOVER Last edited by GABE310; 12-02-2003 at 05:48 PM.

12-02-2003, 05:02 PM	#11
GABE310 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: SOUTHERN,CA Posts: 429	I tried to post pictures, but it did not work. If you would like to see the let me onw I can e-mail them to you. Thanks __________________ 68 CHEVY SWB 95 HARLEY DAVIDSON NOSTALGIA 68 CAMARO CONV 65 CHEVELLE CONV 39 CHEVY CABOVER

12-02-2003, 07:36 PM	#12
ShamrockCustoms Project56 on hold Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: Burleson, TX Posts: 489	send them to me, i will post here...... shamrockcustoms@yahoo.com

12-03-2003, 04:21 AM	#13
GABE310 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: SOUTHERN,CA Posts: 429	pic Attached Images __________________ 68 CHEVY SWB 95 HARLEY DAVIDSON NOSTALGIA 68 CAMARO CONV 65 CHEVELLE CONV 39 CHEVY CABOVER

12-03-2003, 04:24 AM	#14
GABE310 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: SOUTHERN,CA Posts: 429	pic# 2 Attached Images __________________ 68 CHEVY SWB 95 HARLEY DAVIDSON NOSTALGIA 68 CAMARO CONV 65 CHEVELLE CONV 39 CHEVY CABOVER

12-03-2003, 04:29 AM	#15
GABE310 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: SOUTHERN,CA Posts: 429	Finally figure how to got them posted. Attached Images __________________ 68 CHEVY SWB 95 HARLEY DAVIDSON NOSTALGIA 68 CAMARO CONV 65 CHEVELLE CONV 39 CHEVY CABOVER

12-03-2003, 10:07 PM	#16
Slams_58 Account Suspended Join Date: May 2002 Location: I let ya know as soon as I know Posts: 3,593	whats a truck like this worth? there is one in town here that may come up for sale only this on has a newer black paint job on it



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12-05-2003, 12:47 PM	#17
rico_bob "Treasure the Ride" Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Mid Michigan, Harrison Michigan, USA Posts: 682	More Cameo I.D. Information *Here is some more Cameo information to help verify that you have a "true" Cameo!* rico_bob Gabriel, Thanks for contacting us at Rico's Rods & Relics! I will be glad to help you on your classic truck project. Here is some good information that I have found regarding the VIN number you have: VH255L016166 The first letter "V" indicates this truck came from the factory as a V-8 (in 1955 it would have been a 265 Cubic inch small block engine). the "H255" indicates this truck was a 1955 short wheel base (114") ½ ton. The "L" indicates this truck was built in the Los Angeles Plant. However, all the Cameo fiberglass bed parts were produced in the Corvette Plant in Ohio and shipped to L.A. for final assembly. The numbers 016166 indicate that this truck is production number 16,166. Now there were not that many Cameos (16 thousand) built. The production number is an indication of all the inventory built in 1955. "An interesting note is that Cameos had no special V.I.N. designation, even though they carried the 3124 Model Identification" (NOT found on the front fender emblems until 1957 Model) "If you are into originality the above will tell you the exactly where your truck was assembled. Aside from this, the original front motor mounts in an "original V-8" were riveted to the frame which is hard to duplicate in a "Bogus" V-8 conversion." Source: Identifying 1955-1959 Trucks, quote from http://www.55-57chevys.com/coccc/sho...s/t5559/tl.jpg Other helpful tips: Check the frame V.I.N. number (located on the top of the frame rail driver's side near the upper shock mount bracket) GM stamped the V.I.N. again here. This number should match the V.I.N. number on the small blue and white (or silver) tag on the drivers door post. If it is a true Cameo, it should have bed sides that do not have bolt holes in the side of the steel bedsides (if they do, then it is a conversion), as Cameo bed sides were only bolted on at the top. In addition, be sure all the bed parts are intact, like the fiberglass tailgate cover, the bumper ends, the spare tire carrier and filler panels between the back of the cab and the fiberglass bed side. Cameo cab interiors had special seat covers, came with arm rests, and had a white headliner and white rubber gasket (as options not available on regular trucks) Dash knobs were typically chrome, the cab may or may not have a "big rear window" (panorama view option) The big window was standard on Cameos, but a small window could be "special ordered" if desired by the buyer. The exterior of the cab may or may not include stainless trim around the window frames and glass frames and division bars could be stainless (polished SS not chrome). Beginning in 1957, the front fender emblems would have the model identifier of 3124. The front bumper would be stainless steel and may or may not have the optional "bumper guards". There also should be a small "V" emblem on the fender (1957=door) to indicate this truck came with a factory V-8 engine. My two cents worth, rico_bob Rico's Rods & Relics - "Treasure the Ride in Pride" www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com __________________ If you think you can you're right. If you think you can't you're still right. Trucks: '56 SWB; '57 SWB; '63 C-10 Current projects: 1963 Long Fleetside for the wife! '56 for the daughter. Visit us at: www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com

12-05-2003, 10:06 PM	#18
DennyB Led Sled! Discs R 4 ME! Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Toms River, NJ, USA (Transplanted Hoosier) Posts: 7,327	Shawna, Thats a cool loking GMC. I didn't know that they came with a fleet bed? Perhaps Rico can shed some light on that. I've always liked the GMCs front end! __________________ "Never ride faster than your Angel can fly" I.M.O.M,W,J&C Patriot Guard Rider

12-08-2003, 04:34 PM	#19
GABE310 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: SOUTHERN,CA Posts: 429	I want to thank everyone especially Rico_Bob for all your input on my question. After taking a good look at the truck and the info Rico_Bob gave me it looks like the truck was made into a Cameo. It has bolts holes inside of the steel bedsides. So i'm going to pass on this truck. __________________ 68 CHEVY SWB 95 HARLEY DAVIDSON NOSTALGIA 68 CAMARO CONV 65 CHEVELLE CONV 39 CHEVY CABOVER

12-11-2003, 07:41 PM	#20
Norselander Clunker Farm, Proprietor Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Coastal Northern California Posts: 124	The GMC SC is a rare bird. If you don't care for the front wrap, Chevrolet parts will bolt on... but hang onto the GMC piece -- they are becoming hard to find. All things being equal, in their day the GMCs were considered to be the better of the two GM names: a big chrome grille designed to emulate that of the Cadillac and the larger optional Pontiac V8 motor. I6s were bigger too (270CID). --- An original Cameo bed might be reason enough for buying one of these trucks since it is the significant difference between the stepside and the Cameo. Check to make certain that the bumper is made up of 'hard parts' and that the spare carrier exists. Good luck! -D BTW, check here for more info -- http://www.1955gmc.com/

12-18-2003, 11:15 PM	#21
rico_bob "Treasure the Ride" Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Mid Michigan, Harrison Michigan, USA Posts: 682	So then... Is this 55 Cameo dupla still for sale then Gabe??? __________________ If you think you can you're right. If you think you can't you're still right. Trucks: '56 SWB; '57 SWB; '63 C-10 Current projects: 1963 Long Fleetside for the wife! '56 for the daughter. Visit us at: www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com

12-18-2003, 11:21 PM	#22
rico_bob "Treasure the Ride" Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Mid Michigan, Harrison Michigan, USA Posts: 682	Denny B... GMC called their version of the Cameo by the name of "Suburban Carrier". And Norselander has added one of the best GMC Carrier links in his post! Remember also that Cameos stopped being built mid-year 1958. Too expensive to build compared to steel fleetside bed sides that GM began stamping out in 1958. There were about 1,400 Cameos built in 1958 the last year they were produced. My two cents worth! rico_bob __________________ If you think you can you're right. If you think you can't you're still right. Trucks: '56 SWB; '57 SWB; '63 C-10 Current projects: 1963 Long Fleetside for the wife! '56 for the daughter. Visit us at: www.ricos-rods-and-relics.com

12-19-2003, 10:18 PM	#23
GABE310 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: SOUTHERN,CA Posts: 429	My friend said he was going to hold off on selling the truck. He's looking to trade it for a 67-68 Camaro. So if someone is interested let me know. __________________ 68 CHEVY SWB 95 HARLEY DAVIDSON NOSTALGIA 68 CAMARO CONV 65 CHEVELLE CONV 39 CHEVY CABOVER

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