1970 To 1986 Chevy Trucks For Sale: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide pickup.truckstrend.com
For enthusiasts, collectors, and those simply seeking a robust, stylish, and timeless vehicle, the 1970 to 1986 Chevrolet truck represents a golden era of American automotive design and engineering. These workhorses, spanning two distinct and beloved generations – the final years of the C/K "Action Line" (1970-1972) and the iconic "Square Body" era (1973-1986) – offer a unique blend of vintage charm, mechanical simplicity, and surprising versatility. Whether you’re planning a full restoration, looking for a reliable daily driver with character, or aiming to build a custom showpiece, understanding the nuances of these classic Chevy trucks is key to a successful purchase. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding, evaluating, and owning a 1970-1986 Chevy truck.
The Enduring Appeal of Classic Chevy Trucks
1970 To 1986 Chevy Trucks For Sale: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide
The period from 1970 to 1986 was pivotal for Chevrolet trucks. The early 70s saw the refined culmination of the second-generation C/K series, celebrated for its sleek lines and comfortable ride. Then, in 1973, Chevrolet launched the revolutionary "Square Body" design – a larger, more modern, and incredibly versatile platform that dominated the truck market for over a decade. These trucks became synonymous with American resilience and capability, serving as everything from farm vehicles and construction site mainstays to family haulers and custom cruisers.
Their enduring popularity stems from several factors:
- Timeless Aesthetics: Both generations boast distinctive, appealing designs that stand out in today’s crowded automotive landscape.
- Mechanical Simplicity: Largely devoid of complex electronics, these trucks are easier to diagnose, repair, and maintain for the average enthusiast.
- Durability: Built with robust frames and tried-and-true powertrains, many have survived decades of hard work.
- Aftermarket Support: The sheer volume of these trucks produced means an extensive and affordable aftermarket for parts, making restoration and customization projects highly feasible.
- Customization Potential: Their straightforward design makes them a blank canvas for modifications, from mild street cruisers to lifted off-road beasts.
Benefits of Owning a 1970-1986 Chevy Truck
Beyond their classic appeal, these trucks offer tangible advantages for modern owners:
- Reliability: With proper maintenance, many of these trucks can run for hundreds of thousands of miles. Their mechanical simplicity means fewer complex failure points compared to modern vehicles.
- Strong Community & Resources: A passionate global community of owners and enthusiasts exists, providing a wealth of knowledge, advice, and camaraderie. Online forums, social media groups, and dedicated events are plentiful.
- Investment Potential: Well-maintained or professionally restored examples, particularly rare trims or highly desirable models (like short-bed C10s), can appreciate in value over time.
- Versatility: Whether you need a truck for light hauling, weekend cruising, or tackling off-road trails (especially 4×4 K-series), there’s a configuration to suit.
- Lower Insurance Costs: Older vehicles often qualify for classic car insurance, which can be significantly cheaper than standard auto insurance, provided certain conditions are met (e.g., limited mileage, secure storage).
How to Find and Evaluate Your Next Classic Chevy Truck
The search for your ideal 1970-1986 Chevy truck requires patience and a keen eye.
Where to Look:
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, eBay Motors, and dedicated classic car sites (e.g., Hemmings, ClassicCars.com) are excellent starting points.
- Classic Car Dealerships: Reputable dealers specializing in vintage vehicles often have a selection of trucks, though prices may be higher.
- Auctions: Live and online auctions can offer a wide range of conditions and prices, but be prepared to make quick decisions and inspect thoroughly beforehand.
- Private Sellers: Often found through word-of-mouth or local ads, private sales can yield great deals but require more diligence in inspection.
- Specialized Forums & Clubs: Many enthusiast groups have "for sale" sections where members offer their trucks.
What to Inspect:
A thorough inspection is paramount. Bring a flashlight, a magnet, and an experienced friend if possible.
- Rust: This is the biggest enemy. Check common rust areas:
- Cab: Rocker panels, cab corners, floorboards (under the carpet/mat), firewall, door jambs.
- Bed: Bed floor (especially near the wheel wells and front/rear panels), inner fenders, bed sides, tailgate.
- Frame: Inspect the entire frame for cracks, bends, or severe rust perforation, especially where suspension components attach.
- Body Mounts: These are critical and prone to rust.
- Engine & Transmission:
- Cold Start: Listen for knocking, excessive smoke (blue/white), or unusual noises.
- Fluid Leaks: Check for oil, transmission fluid, coolant, or power steering leaks.
- Transmission: Check fluid levels and condition. Test all gears, including reverse. For automatics, ensure smooth shifts. For manuals, check clutch engagement and shifter feel.
- Suspension & Steering:
- Look for worn ball joints, tie rods, bushings, and leaf springs.
- Check for excessive play in the steering wheel.
- Brakes: Test pedal feel and stopping power. Check for fluid leaks or worn lines.
- Interior: Assess the condition of the seats, dashboard (cracks are common), door panels, and headliner. Ensure all gauges, lights, and accessories (heater, AC, radio) function.
- Electrical: Test all lights (headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights), wipers, horn, and power windows (if equipped).
- Documentation: Verify the VIN, check the title for any liens, and inquire about service records.
Understanding Trim Levels & Options:
Chevy trucks of this era came in various configurations:
- Series: C (2WD) and K (4WD).
- Weight Classes: 10 (1/2 ton), 20 (3/4 ton), 30 (1 ton).
- Bed Styles: Fleetside (smooth, straight sides) and Stepside (fenders outside the bed, side steps).
- Cab Configurations: Regular cab, Crew Cab (less common), and Blazer/Suburban.
- Trim Levels (Square Body): Custom Deluxe, Scottsdale, Cheyenne, Silverado (top trim). Each offered increasing levels of comfort and features.
Knowing what you’re looking at will help you determine fair market value and fit for your needs.
Important Considerations Before Buying
- Your Budget: Beyond the purchase price, factor in potential restoration costs, parts, insurance, and ongoing maintenance.
- Intended Use: Will it be a daily driver, a weekend cruiser, a show truck, or a workhorse? This will dictate the level of condition you need.
- Parts Availability: While generally good, some specific trim pieces or rare components can be hard to find.
- Emissions & Registration: Check your local regulations. Older vehicles may be exempt from modern emissions testing, but requirements vary by state/country.
- Storage: These trucks are large. Ensure you have adequate, secure storage to protect your investment.
Tips for Restoration and Maintenance
Many owners choose to restore or modify their classic Chevy trucks.
- Start with a Solid Foundation: It’s almost always cheaper to buy a truck with minimal rust and a good frame, even if it needs mechanical work, than to fix extensive body rot.
- Prioritize Safety: Before any cosmetic work, ensure brakes, steering, suspension, and tires are in excellent working order. Consider upgrading to disc brakes if not already equipped.
- Common Upgrades:
- Fuel Injection (EFI): Aftermarket EFI kits significantly improve reliability, fuel economy, and cold starting compared to carburetors.
- Air Conditioning: Modern AC systems can be retrofitted for comfort.
- Overdrive Transmission: A 700R4 (for automatics) or a 5-speed manual greatly improves highway cruising comfort and fuel economy.
- Suspension: Lowering kits, lift kits, or performance suspension upgrades are popular.
- Join the Community: Leverage online forums, local car clubs, and social media groups. They are invaluable sources of information, troubleshooting tips, and parts leads.
- Patience is Key: Restoration projects take time, money, and effort. Don’t rush the process.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
- Hidden Rust: What looks like a small rust bubble can hide extensive damage. Use a magnet to detect body filler. Solution: Thorough pre-purchase inspection and budget for bodywork.
- Previous Poor Repairs: Patchwork, shoddy wiring, or incorrect modifications can create headaches. Solution: Look for original, unmolested examples or trucks with documented, professional work.
- Parts Sourcing: While common parts are plentiful, some specific trim pieces or unique options can be difficult to locate. Solution: Connect with parts suppliers specializing in classic Chevy trucks, scour swap meets, and utilize online communities.
- Fuel Economy: Older carbureted V8s are not known for their fuel efficiency. Solution: Consider EFI conversion or an overdrive transmission.
- Finding an Unmolested Example: Many of these trucks have been modified over the years. Finding a truly original, well-preserved example can be challenging but highly rewarding. Solution: Expand your search radius and be prepared to pay a premium for originality.
Price Table: 1970 To 1986 Chevy Trucks For Sale (Estimated Ranges)
These prices are highly variable based on condition, mileage, engine, transmission, trim level, 2WD/4WD, location, and market demand. This table provides a general guideline for common models.
| Model Year Range | Condition Category | Description & Common Traits | Estimated Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1970-1972 C/K | Project | Significant rust, non-running, incomplete. | $2,000 – $8,000 |
| Driver | Runs and drives, minor rust, needs TLC. | $10,000 – $25,000 | |
| Restored/Show | Professionally restored, excellent condition, desirable options. | $30,000 – $70,000+ | |
| 1973-1986 C/K (Square Body) | Project | Heavy rust, non-running, missing parts. | $1,500 – $6,000 |
| Driver | Runs and drives, cosmetic flaws, some rust, good basis. | $7,000 – $20,000 | |
| Restored/Show | Excellent condition, minimal flaws, upgraded components, often custom. | $25,000 – $60,000+ | |
| Specific Considerations for Higher Values: | |||
| Short Bed C10/K10 | Any condition | Highly desirable, especially 1970-72. | +15-30% over long bed |
| 4×4 (K-series) | Any condition | Generally commands higher prices than 2WD. | +10-25% over 2WD |
| Big Block Engine | Any condition | Adds value, especially for performance enthusiasts. | +5-15% |
| Silverado/Cheyenne Trim | Driver/Restored | Higher trim levels, more features. | +5-10% |
| Rare Configurations | Crew Cab, Dually (K30) | Niche market, can fetch strong prices. | Variable |
Note: Prices are estimates and subject to market fluctuations. A highly customized or award-winning truck could easily exceed these ranges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are parts readily available for these trucks?
A: Yes, parts availability is excellent, especially for mechanical components and common body panels. Many aftermarket suppliers specialize in reproduction parts for the 1970-1986 Chevy trucks.
Q: Which engine is best for a daily driver?
A: The Small Block Chevy 350 V8 is widely considered the best balance of power, reliability, and parts availability. The 305 V8 is also common and reliable, though less powerful. Consider adding an aftermarket EFI system for improved daily drivability.
Q: Is a 4×4 (K-series) more expensive to maintain?
A: Generally, yes. The additional drivetrain components (transfer case, front differential, specific suspension parts) mean more potential wear points and higher complexity for repairs compared to a 2WD C-series truck.
Q: What’s the biggest difference between a 1970-72 and a 1973-86 truck?
A: The 1970-72 trucks are the last of the "Action Line" second generation, known for their more car-like dashboards and classic styling. The 1973-86 "Square Body" is a complete redesign, larger, more angular, with improved interior space, and a more modern (for the time) cab structure.
Q: Can I put modern conveniences like AC or power windows in these trucks?
A: Absolutely! Many aftermarket companies offer complete kits to add modern air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, and even updated stereo systems while maintaining a classic look.
Conclusion
The 1970 to 1986 Chevy trucks represent a fantastic opportunity for anyone seeking a classic vehicle that combines style, utility, and a robust aftermarket. Whether you’re drawn to the elegant lines of the early 70s C10 or the rugged, iconic stance of the "Square Body," these trucks offer a rewarding ownership experience. With careful research, a thorough inspection, and a clear understanding of your goals, you can find the perfect vintage Chevy truck to become your next cherished project, reliable workhorse, or head-turning showpiece. The journey of finding and restoring one of these automotive legends is a fulfilling endeavor, connecting you to a rich history of American ingenuity and a passionate community of enthusiasts.