1987 Chevy 4×4 Trucks For Sale Craigslist: Your Ultimate Buyer’s Guide pickup.truckstrend.com
The roar of a classic V8, the unmistakable lines of an iconic body, and the promise of rugged capability – these are the hallmarks of the 1987 Chevy 4×4 truck. As the final year of the beloved "Squarebody" generation (though officially designated R/V series for 1987-1991 in this body style for pickups), the ’87 model holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. It perfectly blends vintage aesthetics with the reliability of Throttle Body Injection (TBI) fuel delivery, making it a highly sought-after vehicle. For those on the hunt, Craigslist often emerges as a primary marketplace, offering a diverse array of 1987 Chevy 4×4 trucks for sale, from pristine showpieces to promising project vehicles. This comprehensive guide will navigate the exciting, yet sometimes challenging, world of finding and buying your ideal 1987 Chevy 4×4 on Craigslist.
Why the 1987 Chevy 4×4 Holds Its Enduring Appeal
1987 Chevy 4×4 Trucks For Sale Craigslist: Your Ultimate Buyer’s Guide
The 1987 Chevy 4×4 trucks are more than just old pickups; they are a piece of American automotive history, embodying a rugged simplicity that resonates with many. Their enduring popularity on platforms like Craigslist stems from several key factors:
- Iconic Squarebody Design: The clean, utilitarian lines of the 1973-1987 body style are timeless. Whether it’s a K10, K20, K30 pickup, a Blazer, or a Suburban, these vehicles exude a classic cool that modern trucks often lack.
- Robust Drivetrain: Equipped with legendary small-block Chevy V8s (305 or 350 cubic inches), stout automatic (TH350, TH400) or manual (SM465) transmissions, and durable transfer cases (NP208, NP241), these trucks were built to last and handle serious work or off-road adventures.
- Throttle Body Injection (TBI): The ’87 model year introduced TBI, offering a significant upgrade over carbureted systems. TBI provides more consistent cold starts, improved fuel economy, and easier maintenance compared to earlier models, striking a perfect balance between classic simplicity and modern convenience.
- Unmatched Versatility: From dependable workhorses on the farm or job site to capable off-road machines, daily drivers, or even show-stopping custom builds, the 1987 Chevy 4×4 adapts to nearly any role.
- Abundant Parts Availability: Due to their massive production numbers and shared components across many GM vehicles, parts for 1987 Chevy 4×4 trucks are incredibly easy to find and often affordable, making maintenance and restoration projects manageable.
These attributes make the 1987 Chevy 4×4 a compelling target for buyers browsing Craigslist, whether they’re looking for a weekend project or a turn-key classic.
Navigating Craigslist for 1987 Chevy 4x4s
Finding the perfect 1987 Chevy 4×4 for sale on Craigslist requires a strategic approach. The platform’s local focus can be a huge advantage, but also necessitates careful searching.
- Effective Search Strategies: Start with broad terms like "Chevy 4×4," "1987 Chevy," or "Squarebody." Refine your search with specific model designations like "K10," "K20," "K30," "Blazer," or "Suburban." Don’t forget to include "GMC" as well, as many GMC Sierra/Jimmy models from 1987 share the same mechanicals and body style. Experiment with misspellings or common slang if initial searches are dry.
- Location and Radius: Craigslist is geographically based. Begin by searching your immediate area, then gradually expand the radius. Be prepared to travel for a desirable truck, but factor in transportation costs.
- Deciphering Listings: Pay close attention to the details provided (or not provided). Look for multiple, clear photos from various angles, including the interior, engine bay, and undercarriage if possible. A detailed description of the truck’s condition, mileage, known issues, and recent maintenance is a good sign. Be wary of listings with vague descriptions, stock photos, or prices that seem too good to be true – these are common red flags for scams.
- Seller Communication: Once you find a promising listing, contact the seller with specific questions. Ask about the truck’s history, why they’re selling it, any mechanical issues, rust, and whether the title is clear and in their name. Their responsiveness and willingness to provide information can tell you a lot.
What to Inspect Before You Buy Your 1987 Chevy 4×4
Purchasing a vintage vehicle, especially sight unseen from Craigslist, demands thorough inspection. Before you commit, here’s a checklist for any 1987 Chevy 4×4 truck:
- Body and Frame Rust: This is the number one enemy of Squarebodies. Check cab corners, rocker panels, floorboards, inner fenders, bed mounts, and the frame rails. Surface rust can be manageable, but extensive rot is a major red flag and costly to repair.
- Engine and Drivetrain:
- Engine: Look for oil leaks, listen for strange noises (knocks, ticks), check for smoke from the exhaust (blue for oil, white for coolant, black for rich fuel). Verify the TBI unit is present and not replaced with a carburetor (unless desired).
- Transmission: Check fluid levels and color (should be reddish, not burnt). For automatics, ensure smooth shifting without slipping. For manuals, check clutch engagement and gear changes.
- 4×4 System: Engage 4-high and 4-low during a test drive (in a safe, unpaved area). Listen for clunks or grinding. Ensure the front hubs engage properly.
- Suspension and Steering: Inspect ball joints, tie rods, bushings, and shocks for wear. Look for excessive play in the steering wheel. If lifted, ensure the lift kit was professionally installed and components are in good shape.
- Brakes: Check for spongy pedal, pulling to one side, or excessive noise.
- Interior: Assess the condition of the seats, dash (prone to cracking), headliner, and door panels. Test all gauges, lights, wipers, horn, and HVAC system.
- Electrical System: Verify all lights (headlights, tail lights, turn signals, brake lights) work. Test power windows, locks, and radio if equipped. Older wiring can lead to intermittent issues.
- Documentation: Always ensure the seller has a clear, transferable title in their name. Be wary of salvage titles or trucks without proper paperwork. Ask for service records if available.
- Test Drive: This is crucial. Drive the truck at various speeds, including highway speeds if possible. Pay attention to how it accelerates, brakes, steers, and handles bumps. Listen for unusual noises.
Common Issues and Potential Solutions
While generally robust, 1987 Chevy 4×4 trucks can have specific age-related issues. Knowing these in advance can help you budget for repairs or negotiate the price.
- Rust: As mentioned, pervasive. Solutions range from patch panels and section replacement to full body-off restoration, depending on severity.
- Worn Suspension/Steering Components: Ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, and steering box play are common. These are relatively straightforward and affordable to replace.
- Electrical Gremlins: Old wiring, corroded grounds, and failing switches can cause intermittent electrical issues. Diagnosis can be tedious but often solvable by cleaning connections or replacing specific components.
- TBI System Issues: While reliable, the TBI unit’s injectors can get clogged, or sensors (like the oxygen sensor or coolant temp sensor) can fail, leading to poor performance or fuel economy. Rebuild kits and sensor replacements are readily available.
- Drivetrain Leaks: Seals and gaskets can dry out over time, leading to minor leaks from the engine, transmission, transfer case, or differentials. Most are not critical but indicate a need for attention.
Pricing Your 1987 Chevy 4×4 on Craigslist
The price of a 1987 Chevy 4×4 truck on Craigslist can vary dramatically based on condition, location, specific model, and modifications. Here’s a general guide:
| Condition Category | Description | Estimated Price Range (USD) | Key Factors Affecting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project/Parts Truck | Non-running, heavy rust, major mechanical issues, incomplete. | $1,000 – $3,500 | Extent of rust, completeness, engine condition, title status. |
| Driver Quality | Runs and drives, functional 4×4, some rust/dents, needs TLC but usable. | $4,000 – $8,000 | Engine type (350 commands more), transmission, cab configuration (reg/ext), rust severity. |
| Good Condition/Daily Driver | Solid mechanics, minimal rust, decent paint, functional interior, reliable. | $8,500 – $15,000 | Originality, mileage, trim level (Silverado), specific options (AC, power windows). |
| Restored/Show Quality | Frame-off restoration, pristine paint, new interior, rebuilt drivetrain, rare. | $16,000 – $35,000+ | Quality of restoration, originality, rare options, engine upgrades, historical significance. |
Negotiation Tips: Always negotiate. Be polite but firm. Point out any discovered flaws or needed repairs as leverage. Have your financing (or cash) ready, as this can give you an edge. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the deal doesn’t feel right.
Tips for a Successful Purchase
- Bring a Knowledgeable Friend: If you’re not mechanically inclined, bring someone who is. A second pair of eyes is invaluable.
- Don’t Rush: Take your time. There are always more trucks.
- Ask for More Photos/Videos: If you’re traveling a distance, ask the seller for specific photos or videos of problem areas before you make the trip.
- Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): For higher-priced trucks, consider having a local mechanic perform a PPI. It’s a small investment that can save you big money.
- Secure Payment: Avoid wiring money. Use a secure method like a cashier’s check or cash, ideally at a bank or public place.
Conclusion
The allure of a 1987 Chevy 4×4 truck is undeniable, offering a potent blend of classic style, robust engineering, and practical utility. Craigslist, with its local listings and direct seller-to-buyer interactions, remains a treasure trove for finding these iconic vehicles. While the journey to acquire one requires diligence, thorough inspection, and smart negotiation, the reward of owning and driving a piece of automotive history is immeasurable. With the right approach, you can navigate the listings, identify a solid candidate, and soon be behind the wheel of your own vintage Chevy 4×4, ready for whatever adventure lies ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What makes the 1987 model year unique for Chevy 4×4 trucks?
A1: The 1987 model year for pickups was the last year of the "Squarebody" body style (though officially designated R/V series for 1987-1991). Crucially, it was the first year to feature Throttle Body Injection (TBI) for the V8 engines, offering improved reliability and fuel efficiency over earlier carbureted models.
Q2: Are parts readily available for 1987 Chevy trucks?
A2: Yes, absolutely. Due to their immense popularity and shared components across many GM trucks and SUVs of that era, parts for 1987 Chevy 4x4s are very easy to find from aftermarket suppliers, junkyards, and online retailers.
Q3: What’s the difference between K10, K20, and K30?
A3: These designations refer to the truck’s payload capacity:
- K10: 1/2-ton truck (light duty)
- K20: 3/4-ton truck (medium duty)
- K30: 1-ton truck (heavy duty, often with dual rear wheels)
The "K" indicates 4×4, while "C" would indicate 2WD.
Q4: What are the most common rust spots on a 1987 Chevy 4×4?
A4: Common rust areas include cab corners, rocker panels, floorboards, inner fenders, bed sides (especially near the wheel wells), and the frame rails. Check these areas thoroughly during inspection.
Q5: Can a 1987 Chevy 4×4 be used as a reliable daily driver?
A5: With proper maintenance and addressing any existing issues, a 1987 Chevy 4×4 with TBI can absolutely be a reliable daily driver. Their mechanical simplicity makes them relatively easy to work on and maintain.
Q6: How can I avoid scams when looking for a 1987 Chevy 4×4 on Craigslist?
A6: Always meet in person in a public place. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Insist on seeing a clear title in the seller’s name. Never send money via wire transfer or through unverified payment apps. If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is. Trust your gut.