Chevrolet ton C/K-Series Pickup Trucks - “Built to Stay Tough”

Author: Norm Mort Published by: Veloce Publishing ISBN: 978-1-787113-11-4

There are several reasons why the third-generation Chevrolet 1⁄2- ton pick-up trucks have become so popular in recent years. As older pick-ups have become both harder to find and more expensive to buy, enthusiasts have looked at later models to restore and cherish. The C/K Series from 1973 to 1987 were and still are handsome vehicles, both practical and relatively easy to work on. The long production run means that spares are readily available and while the range was constantly revised, updated and improved, there will be much component compatibility. Their engineering became more sophisticated, with improvements in engines, performance, reliability and economy, the last ones receiving fuel injection, with all its benefits. Also, these were the first generation of light duty trucks to be relatively comfortable to drive and could be used as an alternative to a car of the period, without compromising the creature comforts. They were the first proper SUVs, when ordered with the appropriate upgrades.

Topics in Veloce’s ‘Those were the days...’ series are a particular favourite of mine and this new volume from Canadian author, Norm Mort, maintains the standard we’ve come to expect. With a year-by-year analysis of these attractive workhorses, accompanied by specs and options available as the years went by and a great selection of both contemporary and new photographs, what’s not to like? It is interesting to see the progression from advertising bare bones farm and industrial application utility trucks, in both two- and four-wheel-drive versions, to the relatively sophisticated hobbyist vehicles for people who needed both practical transportation, but appreciated the contrasting two-tone paint combinations and additional brightwork of the upmarket Silverado and Wrangler trim packages. The book covers Fleetside and Stepside models, both petrol and diesel powered. It’s a compact little volume, but packed with facts, figures and glossy colour illustrations.