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383 Stroker Powered: 1968 GMC C-15 Sleeper

Both Chevrolet and GMC offered comparable versions of the same trucks from the C/K line which ran from 1960-2002. The “C” designation stood for 2-wheel-drive while “K” models were for 4-wheel-engagement. Commonly associated with pickups, the C/K series also included chassis cabs and medium-duty trucks. This 1968 GMC C-15 short-bed “step-side” has been given a complete mechanical restoration loaded with enhancements, while the body and interior were left alone. For those into patina, all of what you see here is compliments of Mother Nature and Father Time. Located in Dallas, Texas, the bidding here on eBay has reached $10,200 but the reserve is still hanging out there.

Second-generation C/K trucks were built between 1967-72 and were given the marketing moniker of “The Action Line” by GM. These haulers were little changed from year to year, with this ’68 wearing side marker lights which were mandated by the Feds beginning that year. This “Jimmy” is a fresh build from DFW Speed Shop that did a frame-off mechanical restoration but left its original paint and surface rust to create something of a sleeper when it pulls up to a traffic light. No patch panels have ever been installed and no lacquer was added either to further the non-rust, rusty look. Whatever body issues that were found when taking the truck apart were deemed insignificant enough to address.

This truck was rebuilt to go fast and sound good and we assume those goals were accomplished. A lengthy list of rebuilds or changes includes – but is not limited to – the following:

  • 383 cubic inch Stroker V8 with enough internal tweaks to produce 576 hp on the dyno
  • TH-400 automatic transmission with a reverse manual valve body
  • 12-bolt rear end with Moser axles and ½ studs with a Yukon positraction unit and 3.73 gears
  • oodles of suspension changes and enhancements to create a lower street profile
  • disc brakes up front with rebuilt drums in the rear, also a new gas tank
  • Hooker headers with Borla mufflers

We’re told the truck drives great and has very good street manners, especially with all the upgrades. The seller left the body alone so no one would care if it were “beat on”, right down to the cow-catcher front bumper. However, I don’t think I would separate the body from the chassis without restoring its physical appearance. Sooner or later, you’re going to have to go through some of the same steps again to help preserve the truck for another 53 years. It’s hard to place a resale value on a vehicle like this because nothing mechanical is original. So, it boils down to what someone thinks it’s worth right here and now.

Comments

  1. Avatar photo CCFisher

    Anybody else getting a “Mad Max” vibe from this one?

    Like 1
    • Avatar photo AMXBrian

      I didn’t get a Mad Max vibe but this truck does remind me of the rat rod version something like the F100 from The Expendibles movie

      Like 0
    • Avatar photo Chris M.

      Nope, not in the least. The patina vibe for sure but nothing mad max here.

      Like 1
  2. Avatar photo Johnny C.

    Even though it’s got the over-rated “patina” thing going on, That’s a mean lookin’ Mutha, no doubt… I like it!

    Like 0
  3. Avatar photo Steve R

    Sold with a high bid of $18,200.

    For those that don’t like “patina”, this looks like it could be subjected to a straightforward repaint without too much trouble or expense.

    Steve R

    Like 1
  4. Avatar photo Ron

    First thing the new owner needs to do is perform a brush-guard-ectomy on this cool old truck…

    Like 1
    • Avatar photo Paul K

      I dunno, the first thing I’d do is replace that de-laminated windshield. One good pothole and it’ll be in your lap!

      Like 0
  5. Avatar photo Dave

    Excellent truck. I would want an overdrive, but that’s about it.

    Like 0

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