As prices of classic cars continue to rise, many people have turned to classic trucks as a fun and affordable way to participate in the “old car” hobby. Recently, the Squarebody (also commonly written as Square Body) has increased in popularity due to their simplicity, availability, and ease of sourcing parts. From 1973 through 1987 the C and K series trucks from Chevy and GMC had millions of examples produced, and this 1-of-2,500 special-edition 1975 GMC Gentleman Jim version appears to be in excellent condition. It’s currently for sale in Federal Way, WA and can be found with an asking price of $15,900 here on craigslist. Thanks to Barn Finds fan Matt H. for the tip!
Called the Squarebody for obvious reasons, the introduction of Chevy and GMC’s new truck line in 1973 had a vastly different look that set them apart from pretty much anything else on the road. The design was simple and clean, and accentuated their capability as trucks. They could be specified in basic, bare-bones versions as a work truck as well as loaded with conveniences to make them comfortable as daily drivers. This specific one features full gauges with tachometer, buckets seats with console, and upgraded door panels and trim. It appears that the door panels and seats are aftermarket and/or customized, but they do match the theme with the stitching. The interior in general looks great, with potentially newer carpet and some chrome bezels on the dash, as well as some extra speakers added with a newer head unit. Overall, it should be a comfortable place to spend some time.
The seller doesn’t give specifics on the drivetrain, other than saying it has been rebuilt and has only 47,000 miles on it (whether that was before or after the rebuild, we don’t know). However, I’d bet it’s the very common setup of the 350 cubic inch small-block engine with the TH350 3-speed automatic transmission. The engine bay looks to be very clean, and the bright red paint on the engine could confirm the claim of a rebuild. However, the A/C compressor appears to be missing in the photos, so that would be something for potential buyers to look into.
The exterior of this Gentleman Jim looks fantastic. The factory-style gold and black is a very unique color combo that works well, and it would be even better if this truck still had the color-coordinated wheels that it had when it rolled off the assembly line. The decals, extra chrome trim and bumpers, and side bed rails really do set this truck apart. Also, notice the cab lights, you don’t see those often any more! Overall, this is an attractive and solid truck. There are definitely some custom touches that still fit the character of the Gentleman Jim, but might hurt its value if people prefer it to be factory correct. What’s your opinion?
The Craigslist ad is already down! Looks like someone got a cool truck at a decent price.
I remember seeing a “Beau James” around the same time.
I have 2 1975 gmc gentlemen Jim’s with all the paper work they were just under 7000.00 new they both need to be restored but I still drive them
The Beau James was the GMC version of the truck in different colors. I always preferred the silver/blue of the GMC.
I had a ‘76 Beau James in the early ‘80s. Unfortunately it had plenty of Wisconsin rust, but it was loaded and the interior was perfect. I’ve owned quite a few trucks over the years, but the Beau James was the nicest driving, best riding truck I’ve ever driven
I have 2 1975 gmc gentlemen Jim’s with all the paper work they were just under 7000.00 new they both need to be restored but I still drive them
Take an old truck. Get an original sales brochure. Add some decals and you have a vintage one off. Always amazes me the distance one goes to flip a vehicle.
Well amcfan I have the original paper work the Vin numbers don’t lie I have paper work on what they cost and the dealer ships where they where sold new
I might have to get this!
I remember as a 3rd grader myself and some friends in class coaxed the teacher into taking us on a field trip to the Baltimore GM assembly plant just 30 minutes away. I remember seeing one of these come right off the line and onto some rollers in the floor for a quick test. I also remember seeing guys in white suits painting a pea green Caprice. By hand sprayers. It was 1974. Each kid got to take home a build sheet that was hanging on the assembly line. And as additional excitement, our bus driver clipped a passing car while turning into the facility on Broening Highway. It was my best day of school !! (I think our bus was an Eagle, which I love now) What a lucky kid.
That might be true in some cases but the Vin numbers don’t lie I have the original paperwork on both trucks how much they cost and the dealer ships where they where sold
Needs to be a short bed, then we’ll talk.