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One Family Owned: 1972 Chevrolet C10 Cheyenne Pickup

We’ve seen a few classics at Barn Finds that have been part of the same family since the day they rolled off the showroom floor, and this 1972 Chevrolet C10 Cheyenne Super is a perfect example. This spotless Pickup has spent fifty years in the same household, and its overall condition suggests it has lived a life full of care and respect. The owner made the difficult decision that it needs a new home, so they have listed it here at Mecum Auctions. It is scheduled to go under the hammer in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on Friday, October 14th, as one of the auction’s star offerings. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Larry D for spotting this amazing classic.

Most people spend their hard-earned cash on a Pickup as a workhorse, which generally means they live a hard life. That isn’t the case with this Cheyenne because its condition and presentation are hard to fault. The owner admits it received a single repaint in its original Blue, but it’s unclear when that occurred. The intense shine and lack of visible flaws suggest it was recently and that the Pickup has seen little active service since. The panels are laser straight, but the bed condition may reveal much of this C10’s story. It wears fresh paint, but the steel beneath exhibits none of the dings and dents consistent with heavy use or abuse. I have included a shot in the gallery at the bottom of this article so readers can appreciate its condition. It suggests the owners spent five decades treating this classic with total respect. There is no apparent rust, and the chrome and glass are spotless. My favorite exterior feature is the wheels and trim rings. They are as pristine as the rest of the exterior but add a slight air of menace to this Chevy’s appearance.

This C10’s stunning presentation continues when we turn our attention to its interior. I had to carefully examine the supplied photos to find anything worth criticizing, and I needed to mark it pretty harshly to do so. The faux chrome trim around some aspects of the gauge fascia is worn away, exposing the black base. A search reveals some excellent products that address the shortcoming for a few dollars and utilizing one of those would have a positive impact. Otherwise, the Blue cloth and vinyl upholstery is spotless, and it seems the same is true of the matching carpet under the protective rubber mat. There are no cracks on the dash and pad, and the woodgrain highlights across various interior surfaces are free from wear and lifting. The owner indicates the air conditioning blows ice-cold, while the Cheyenne also features an AM radio and what appears to be a factory under-dash 8-track player.

Chevrolet offered ’72 C10 buyers a choice of five engines to power their new purchase, and this one selected the 350ci V8. That small-block churns out 250hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque, making the Cheyenne an accomplished load carrier or tow vehicle. To ensure the driving experience was relaxed, they added a three-speed Hydramatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The company didn’t set out to create a Pickup designed to scare high-performance models, but the available power and torque should make it an accomplished long-distance cruiser. Considering the presentation across the rest of the vehicle, it is unsurprising that everything in the engine bay is clean enough to eat off. There is no evidence of long-term leaks or other problems. While the owner provides no information on how it runs or drives, the visual indications are positive.

Companies like Chevrolet unashamedly developed vehicles like the 1972 C10 as workhorses. It is common to find older examples looking tired and battered after a life of hard labor, but there is an exception to every rule. This Pickup proves that, and the new owner will undoubtedly slip behind the wheel with their head held high. I believe the bidding should easily pass $35,000 before the hammer falls, but I wouldn’t rule out a significantly higher figure. It should attract attention and favorable comments due to its overall condition, and that will help potential buyers to open their wallets. My only hope is that the buyer continues treating it with the respect it richly deserves.

Comments

  1. Avatar alphasud Member

    I may be wrong but I think for the most part classic trucks with a short bed were not purchased to see hard use. All my trucks have had long beds because they are work rigs. They all get hard use. Nowadays with diesel over 5 bucks in my area the truck has been relegated to work only. This is a beautiful example of one of the best looking trucks of the era. The higher trim level with creature comforts like A/C, Power steering, and brakes makes them a real joy to drive. This one will bring all the money for sure.

    Like 11
  2. Avatar Joe Haska

    Nothing in the description said if it was 2WD or 4WD ,but by all the pictures, I would bet it is for sure 2WD. I would think at auction it will easily go to the high 30’s and more than likely higher. A very nice C-10 with all the bells and whistles, is very rare. You can find cheaper I am sure, but you will spend a lot of time and money to be as nice as this one.

    Like 1
    • Avatar Larry D

      @Joe Haska
      A rust-free, one-family owned, short bed, top of the line ’72 Cheyenne Super with factory air? In the high 30s? Nah, I’m figuring well into the 50s.

      Like 2
  3. Avatar Ross F

    “C” designation means 2WD. “K” means 4WD, in Chevrolet nomenclature.

    Like 0

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