Installing Mar-k’s Body Side Molding on a 1977 C10
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Words and Photos by Jay Mcfarland and Jerry Mcfarland
NOTHING SETS OFF AN EARLY SQUAREBODY more than a complete set of body side moldings. A few different manufacturers make this molding, and we have used just about all it. However, we have found that the molding Mar-k manufactures are of the best quality, resulting in the best overall fit and finish. Although offered in individual pieces, we opted to get the complete upper and lower sets with clips. Mar-k moldings are made from thickergauge US aluminum and finished off with black or 1977-only gold accent stripes and are then bright anodized for protection and a shiny finish.
Although we are building a ’77 C10, we decided on the black accents as they fit with the build a little better. If your truck had this molding from the factory, the installation is relatively straightforward, but the install process can be a bit daunting if it did not.
Our truck was an original Silverado with the trim from the factory; however, we replaced several panels, and the only place the original holes remained were the cab corners. Mar-k offers a couple of options for attaching the moldings. One option is to use clips with an adhesive backing, and another option is to use a combination of clips that consist of metal clips with studs and nuts and the aforementioned adhesive clips. Both include screws that are used for attachment. We used the combo kit as we felt it would provide a more robust installation.
With our truck, we were in the final mockup stages before paint. This is a perfect time to do the installation and drill all the necessary holes. This can also be done on a painted truck; however, you must use extra caution and use lots of masking tape as we did. Make sure to measure twice and drill once. Also, it is crucial to make sure all of the body lines are aligned correctly. If not, it may be time to replace the cab bushings. It is best to have a friend to assist in the installation process. I asked my dad to help; there is nothing better than a shop project where you can spend quality time with your dad!