Chevy/GMC C-10 Trucks:

Generations, Key Differences, and Professional Custom Restorations

Welcome to our blog at PPC Customs! As specialists in Chevy and GMC C-10 trucks based in Clovis, California, we're passionate about these iconic American pickups. At PPC Customs, we focus on full ground-up restorations, frame modifications, and high-performance engine swaps that blend classic style with modern reliability. Our expertise shines in transforming C-10s and square-body pickups from the late '60s through the '80s into resto-mod masterpieces.

If you're an enthusiast who's always admired the raw appeal of a Chevy or GMC C-10 but haven't tackled a project due to limited time, experience, or resources—or if you simply want it handled by a team that's built hundreds to exceed factory standards—this guide is for you. We'll explore the generations and differences to inform your choice, then detail how PPC Customs delivers precision restorations that elevate these classics.

In this guide, we'll break down the main generations of the Chevy/GMC C-10 from 1960 to 1987—the years when the "C-10" designation was most prominent. (Note: While the C/K series continued beyond 1987 with updated designs until 2002, the classic C-10 era often refers to these earlier models.) We'll highlight key differences in styling, features, engines, and more, sprinkling in the slang and buzzwords enthusiasts throw around—like "OG torsion bar haulers" for the early ones or "legendary Squares" for the fan favorites. If you're considering a restoration project, stick around—we'll explain how PPC Customs can help elevate your C-10 with modern upgrades like a fuel-injected engine swap.

First Generation:
1960-1966 – The Pioneers of Modern Comfort, aka the Aircraft-Inspired OG C/K Trucks

The C-10 series kicked off in 1960 as part of Chevrolet's new C/K lineup, where "C" denoted two-wheel drive (2WD) and "10" signified a half-ton payload capacity. GMC offered nearly identical models under names like the GMC 1000 or Suburban, sharing the same platform but with distinct badging and grilles. Enthusiasts often call these the "pinched-waist" or "aircraft-inspired" first-gens, nodding to their jet-age dashboard vibes and sleek lines.

Key Features and Differences:

  • Styling: These trucks featured a more car-like design compared to the 1950s Task Force series, with a wraparound windshield (until 1963) and a distinctive "jet pod" dashboard. The body was boxy yet sleek, with options for Fleetside (smooth-sided) or Stepside (fendered) beds—the Fleetside being the sleeker, modern choice that became a buzzword for clean lines.

  • Suspension and Ride: Introduced independent front suspension with torsion bars for a smoother ride— a big upgrade from leaf springs in older models. This improved weight distribution and handling, earning them the "torsion bar hauler" slang among gearheads.

  • Engines: Base inline-six (like the 235 or 261 cubic-inch) or V8 options (up to 283 cubic-inch). Power was modest by today's standards, around 150-220 horsepower, but perfect for that "gasser" feel if you're swapping in something hotter.

  • Mid-Generation Changes: In 1964, the wraparound windshield was replaced with a flat one for better visibility, and the grille was updated. GMC models often had a more upscale vibe with chrome accents, making them the "premium twin" in convo.

These early C-10s are favorites for their simplicity and are relatively affordable to restore, making them ideal starters for custom projects—think turning a barn find into a street queen.

Second Generation:
1967-1972 – The Action-Line Era, aka Glamour Era Muscle Trucks

Dubbed the "Action-Line" for Chevrolet and similar for GMC, this generation brought a complete redesign focused on comfort and versatility. It ran from 1967 to 1972 and saw the trucks evolve into more driver-friendly vehicles. In enthusiast circles, these are the "Glamour era" rigs, celebrated for their curvy style and muscle potential.

Key Features and Differences:

  • Styling: Smoother, more rounded lines with an eggcrate grille on Chevys and a bolder look on GMCs. The cab was wider and more spacious, with improved insulation for quieter rides. Bed options remained Fleetside or Stepside, with short beds being the "sporty shorty" fave for hot-rodding.

  • Suspension and Ride: Switched to coil springs all around (front and rear on some models), enhancing comfort over rough roads—a major leap from the first gen's torsion bars, making these "coil spring cruisers."

  • Engines: More power options, including the 327 V8 (up to 300 hp) and the big-block 396 V8 for heavy-duty needs. Inline-sixes were still available for efficiency, but the V8s scream "muscle truck" buzz.

  • Mid-Generation Changes: 1969 introduced disc brakes on some models, and 1971-1972 saw minor grille tweaks and the addition of more luxury features like air conditioning. GMC versions often positioned as premium alternatives with unique trim, like the "upscale brother" to Chevy's workhorse.

This era's trucks are known for their muscle car-like performance potential, perfect for hot-rodding or pro-touring builds.

Third Generation: 1973-1987
The Legendary Square Body, aka Squares or Box-Body Beasts

Often called the "Square Body" due to its angular, robust design, this is the longest-running C-10 generation (15 years) and arguably the most popular for custom builds. Chevy and GMC shared the platform, with GMCs marketed as more upscale (e.g., Sierra trim). These are the "Squares" or "box-body" legends that dominate truck shows and forums.

Key Features and Differences:

  • Styling: Bulkier and more modern with larger glass areas for better visibility, a hood that integrated with the fenders, and squared-off lines—hence the "Squarebody" slang, even though GM called it "Rounded-Line." Introduced crew cab options in 1973 for family-friendly use—the first for Chevy trucks.

  • Suspension and Ride: Retained coil springs but with refinements for better stability. Four-wheel drive (K-10) became more common, appealing to off-roaders dreaming of prerunner vibes.

  • Engines: Wide range, from efficient inline-sixes to V8s like the 350 (up to 250 hp) and even diesel options in later years (e.g., 6.2L Detroit Diesel, the original "oil burner"). Fuel crises in the 1970s led to more efficient designs.

  • Mid-Generation Changes: 1973-1980 focused on durability; 1981-1987 added electronic fuel injection on some models, improved aerodynamics, and special editions like the Silverado or Beau James. GMC had exclusives like the High Sierra. Parts availability is excellent due to the long production run, making these "resto gold."

Square Bodies are restoration gold—durable, parts-plentiful, and endlessly customizable, whether you're going murdered-out or white-out.

Beyond 1987:
The Evolution Continues,
Featuring OBS Rigs

While the classic C-10 name phased out after 1987, the C/K series lived on with a fourth generation (1988-1998) featuring aerodynamic styling, advanced electronics, and more powerful engines (e.g., Vortec V8s). These are often called "OBS" (Old Body Style) trucks or "GMT400" in tech talk. GMC transitioned to the Sierra nameplate. If your project involves these later models, they offer a bridge to modern tech while retaining that vintage appeal—ideal for brodozer builds or mall crawlers with a twist.

Ready for a Custom Restoration?
Let Us Help!

At PPC Customs, we live and breathe Chevy/GMC C-10 trucks. Whether you have a rusty 1960s barn find or a well-preserved Square Body, our team excels in full restorations that preserve the original spirit while adding modern reliability. We're known for SEMA-quality builds, including frame-off restorations, air ride suspensions for that aggressive stance (think bagged and slammed), precision metalwork, and high-horsepower engine swaps.

One popular upgrade we offer is swapping in a new fuel-injected motor, such as a GM LS-series V8 or a Whipple supercharged setup—the ultimate "LS swap" buzz. This transforms your classic into a daily driver with improved power (300+ hp easily), better fuel economy, and emissions compliance—without sacrificing that vintage look. We handle everything from slammed suspensions and handcrafted bodywork to custom paint, interior overhauls, and options for clean patina cruisers or full showstoppers, whether you're aiming for stanced, Cen-Cal style, or prerunner/Baja-stance.

Visit us at https://www.ppc-customs.com/ or contact our team in Clovis, CA, for a free consultation! Bring your C-10 vision to life—let's build something legendary together.