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327/4-Speed: 1970 Chevrolet C10 Pickup

Okay, I admit it. We will have readers who look at this 1970 Chevrolet C10 Pickup and question its mechanical specifications. That makes perfect sense because the engine under this classic’s hood was not offered in that model year. It appears someone has performed a heart transplant, but the reason is unknown. It is an essentially complete classic that could form the base for a satisfying project build. The seller has listed the C10 here on eBay in Everest, Kansas. Bidding sits below the reserve at $4,100, although there is a BIN option of $6,300 for those wishing to bypass the auction process.

The history of this Pickup is unclear, although the indications are it hasn’t seen active service for many years. Its White and Medium Bronze paint looks surprisingly good, and on face value, returning it to the road as a survivor seems viable. However, there are rust issues for potential buyers to consider. It has attacked the rockers, which is no great drama. However, the rot around the body mounts is more pressing and would need proper repairs to ensure the C10 is structurally sound and safe. The bed timber has seen better days, but that appears to be the extent of this classic’s major shortcomings. The trim is in generally good order, and there are no glass issues. The Rally wheels add a muscular touch to the exterior and don’t look out of place on this C10.

The C10’s interior can be considered serviceable if the winning bidder’s short-term aim is to return this classic to its rightful place on our roads. The AM/FM radio and under-dash gauge are later additions. The door trims can join that list because they should wear the same Gold vinyl that covers the seat. Lifting the overall presentation won’t involve a long shopping list, with the cracked pad and torn seatcover the most pressing needs. An in-person inspection will undoubtedly reveal more shortcomings, but what we see in the supplied images is a promising start.

The mystery of this C10 deepens when we open the hood. The seller indicates the engine bay houses a 327ci V8 backed by a four-speed manual transmission. The 327 wasn’t an option in 1970, with the seller stating it is of 1968 vintage. The VIN confirms the Pickup rolled off the line powered by a V8, but which version is unclear. If it was the 307, this represents a performance improvement. Otherwise, the 327 will produce less power and torque than the engine it replaced. Another mystery with this C10 is its mechanical health. It doesn’t run or drive. The motor turns by hand, so revival might be possible. Alternatively, the new owner could slot in a different powerplant, and many would consider that as the best option.

Classic Pickups always generate interest when they hit the market, and this 1970 Chevrolet C10 is no exception. It has received twenty-three bids with time remaining on the listing. The action might intensify, which would be unsurprising. That also raises the possibility that with the price at the current level, someone might hit the button to exercise the BIN option. Would you do that or roll the dice by joining the bidding war?

Comments

  1. Nelson C

    Outside looks good from the angles we’re given. Bed floor is shot so there’s more to know. I like the idea of a sbc and a creeper 4speed. You’d have to get used to driving with the constant ratio steering. Even with power steering it’s almost six turns lock to lock.

    Like 1
    • Big_Fun Member

      Nelson C. – I didn’t know about the steering! Thanks!
      Allow me to geek out on the
      numbers…the VIN decodes as a V8, and the label in glovebox lists….er, doesn’t list an optional V8, so the Author was right about the 307 2bbl being in this example new. Also not listed is the 4 speed, and if you look at the column, you see the bump and lack of lever. A 3-on-the-tree was in this when new. Notice lack of radio option, and the original body colored rectangle dash plate is shown in the glove box. The gauges have not been added.
      I’m not sure the black door cards are correct (should be gold?), and the front bumper is a ’71/’72 vintage.
      Basically, a reasonable priced Frankentruck that nobody really minds that it is just that…

      Like 3
  2. Uncle Ed

    I think this would fill that sweet spot between “honey, we need a pick up to haul supplies for our remodeling project” and the need to do drunken burnouts with your buddies in the company backlot after working a Saturday shift (at least that’s what I’ve heard from friends)

    Like 6
  3. Troy

    I’m actually kinda shocked a older Chevrolet on evil bay and the buy it now is below $10k. Personally I think the buy it now is about what its worth in that condition I think it would make a nice driver quality truck easy to work on.

    Like 4
  4. Marc Struglia

    Too cheap for these days. Surprised is isn’t gone.

    Like 1
  5. Matthew Dyer

    Accolades to the seller for exposing the rust through at the body mount(s).
    Great looking truck and it is worth saving.
    I’d take the BIN if I didn’t have my ’77 GMC 1/2 ton longbed already.

    Like 4
  6. V12MECH

    Rust is not a big deal to fix, typical of the type, engine condition is the question mark if you want a flip or fix and drive for yourself, I don’t think it will be available for very long.

    Like 2
  7. Bob Washburne Member

    The bed is completely gone. The wood is just covering cheese. So, in addition to the rockers and body mount, you have to wield a cheesecutter, and weld in a new bed…or source another box, if this was configured that way.

    The engine thing is no big deal. My ’65 Econoline pickup is powered by an I6 from a ’78 Fairmont.

    Like 1

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