New changes to the GMC models hoped to help GMC gain in the truck selling industry. These changes included increased power, new axles, new transmissions, and new engineering developments such as 12 volt electrical systems and chassis improvements.
The 270c engine with 120 hp at 3200 RPM is standard in the PM150 and PM250 models while the 270 engine with 130 hp is standard in the 100 through 300 series. The new 316 cu. in. V8 engine with 180 hp replaces the 288 engine used the previous year and a new method of mounting the engine to the frame reduces vibration and increases mounting life. The 324 cu. in. V8 with 210 hp is also available in 550 and 600 series GMC's. Along with the new engine choices was the Hydra-Matic transmission.
Road Shock Damper (RSD) Suspension, a new GM development, also was available on GMC models. RSD gave light trucks the riding qualities of a passenger car and helped with eliminating road shocks. Other GMC options included directional signals, rearview mirrors, Hydrovac power brake, painted rear bumper, electric windshield wipers, power steering and more.
1956 GMC Production Numbers
Model Number
Body/Style Number
Body Type & Seating
Factory Price
Shipping Weight
Total Production
101 - 1/2 TON - 114 in. wheelbase
101
-
Chassis & Cab
$1,629
3,060 lbs
Not Available
101
-
Panel
$2,028
3,640 lbs
Not Available
101
-
Panel Deluxe
$2,120
3,640 lbs
Not Available
101
-
Pickup
$1,732
3,410 lbs
Not Available
101
-
Canopy Express
-
3,570 lbs
Not Available
101
-
Suburban
$2,422
3,865 lbs
Not Available
102 - 1/2 Ton - 123.25 in. wheelbase
102
-
Chassis & Cab
$1,651
3,130 lbs
Not Available
102
-
Pickup
$1,765
3,510 lbs
Not Available
102
-
Stake
-
3,725 lbs
Not Available
150 - 3/4 Ton - 123.25 in. wheelbase
152
-
Chassis & Cab
$1,808
3,425 lbs
Not Available
152
-
Pickup 7.5 ft
$1,922
3,805 lbs
Not Available
152
-
Stake 7.5 ft
$2,013
4,020 lbs
Not Available
PM151 - 3/4 Ton - 104 in. wheelbase
151
-
Chassis
$1,756
2,900 lbs
Not Available
251 - 1 Ton - 114 in. wheelbase
251
-
Chassis & Cab
$1,920
3,615 lbs
Not Available
252 - 1 Ton - 123.25 in. wheelbase
252
-
Chassis & Cab
$1,920
3,635 lbs
Not Available
253 - 3/4 Ton - 135 in. wheelbase
253
-
Chassis & Cab
$1,920
3,660 lbs
Not Available
253
-
Panel 9 ft
$2,373
4,345 lbs
Not Available
253
-
Panel Deluxe 9 ft
$2,465
4,345 lbs
Not Available
253
-
Pickup 9 ft
$2,055
4,110 lbs
Not Available
253
-
Platform
-
4,225 lbs
Not Available
253
-
Stake
$2,168
4,500 lbs
Not Available
Note:
PM152/252 and PM153/253 also available in 125 in. and 137 in. wheelbase respectively
Add $129 and 160 lbs for a V8 engine
1956 GMC Serial Numbers
Serial Numbers were not made available to industry recording sources.
GMC Service Parts Identification Plate is located inside the cab or on the truck firewall. Stamped on the plate is the following:
Model of Engine
Transmission
Service Brakes
Front and Rear Axles
For more information regarding GMC serial numbers visit OldGMCTrucks.com