The Chevy LUV (an acronym for “Light Utility Vehicle”) was a small pickup made in Japan by Isuzu. Chevrolet imported it for several years until their own S-10 compact truck was on the market in the early 1980s. The seller has a 1978 edition of the LUV, which has a lot of new key components, like the engine and transmission. From its home in Golden Valley, Arizona, this truck may only need new paint before being put into your service. It’s available here on craigslist for $3,500, far less than the seller has in it. Bravo to “Barney” for sending this tip our way.

In Japan, Isuzu sold the LUV as the Faster and struck a deal with Chevrolet to rebadge and import it beginning in 1972. These workhorses were powered at first by a 1.6-liter inline-4, succeeded later by one displacing 1.8 liters (probably the one in the seller’s pickup). A 4-speed manual transmission was standard, and a few buyers went the route of an optional automatic. The first generation of the LUV was on the market through 1979.

The seller’s plan was to restore this truck, and he managed to get all the mechanical stuff done before declining health got in the way. New and installed parts include the engine and transmission, clutch, and tires. The fuel tank was cleaned out, and we’re told the little truck runs great now, ready to go to work.

We’re also told that all that remains is to apply a coat of new paint, and the seller is including the materials needed for that job. You could probably drive the LUV as-is, but since the seller has gotten this project so close to completion, why not take it across the finish line? If you’re looking for an economical truck for work or fun, this LUV could be it. I had a friend who owned one years ago, and it ran and ran without any problems.