This is the one!  A short bed, “Square Body” Chevrolet or GMC pickup, such as this 1986 GMC K1500 Sierra, has become very collectible! And this example punches all of the right tickets. Considered a survivor, this GM gem is located in Oakland, California and is available, here on eBay for a current bid of $20,100 with twenty-six bids tendered so far.

While the longer wheelbase version of GM’s Square Body trucks  (131.5″ and an 8′ cargo box) might have been more logical for serious work activity, it’s the shorter version (117.5″ wheelbase and 6.5′ cargo box) that stirs the imagination of enthusiasts. Claiming mileage of only 52K miles, the seller refers to this truck as a “Survivor”. It’s a term bandied about and the definition is open to interpretation. I would say, in almost every respect, this 4X4 is worthy of that designation. The finish, however, is a repaint but it has been well facilitated. But since it has been resprayed in its original Frost White hue, it’s good to go in that category. Regardless of whether this truck was still wearing its original paint or not, this Sierra is still in fabulous condition, showing no sign of work-related wear, crash damage, or rust. The workday vibe that this GMC throws off is, IMO, a draw, it shows a seriousness of purpose and not a “Hey look at me, I’m a $65K boulevard cruiser” that so many pickup trucks telegraph today. If you have a Google account, there is a walkaround video you can review.

Power is provided by a 165 net HP 350 CI, Chevrolet V8 engine attached to a 700R-4 automatic transmission. The seller adds, “The original 350 v8 fires up and runs good. That being said truck has not done much driving in the last 10-15 years and would benefit tremendously from a full tank of premium or a little carb adjustment. The 700r4 automatic transmission shifts smooth in all gears as well as reverse. The brakes work as they should. The Np208 shifts activate the front axle smoothly.”  Here’s a driving video for your consideration but it’s not very informative – engine noise appears to be courtesy of the NASCAR-style, side exit exhaust.

The seller makes an interesting observation regarding the interior as he states, “…your stepping back to a simpler time. Where instead of occupants being segregated to a place in the cab inundated with technology over stimulation“. I doubt one has to be a Luddite to appreciate that observation. That said, the interior’s condition is not up to that of the exterior. The instrument panel is discolored, the fuel gauge doesn’t work, a small seam in the bench seat back is letting go, I don’t know what’s up with the louvered glovebox door, the radio is missing its knobs, the headlight switch is broken, and the gear selector lever is rusting. These are mostly small items and are offset by the generally sound condition including that of the carpet and the door panels.

There are an extensive number of images included in the listing, be sure to check them all out – this truck truly is in spectacular condition! There are two days to go in the auction and someone is going to get themselves a pretty good deal if the bidding stays in reasonable territory. This one’s a California native, has a short bed body, low mileage, a 4X4 drivetrain, and a V8 engine, what’s not to like, right?