Chevrolet C/K

The Chevrolet C- series or GMC C- Series is a series of large pickups, General Motors offered in the years 1960 to 1998. The respective wheel drive versions are called Chevrolet K - series or GMC K-Series. The first Chevrolet pickup truck appeared in 1924; Since 1930, the vehicles are designed in-house. In 1988, the series was replaced with the GMC GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado 1999 Chevrolet from. The heavier versions of the Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD followed in 2001.

Year by year

1960-1966

Chevrolet C- Series / K- series (1964 )

With the 1960 model of the light pickup a new body style was introduced, which featured many innovations. Among the most important were the new, lowered in the center ladder frame, which allowed a low -seated cab, and the independent front suspension, which gave the pick an almost car -like ride. Also new in 1960 was the name of the GM pickups. The old names for the half- ton truck with short frame, the half- ton truck with a long chassis and the three-quarter ton truck - 3100, 3200 and 3600 - have been replaced by the terms of 10, 20 and 30 for half- ton, three-quarter -ton and Eintonner.

Since 1957 there have been factory -made pickups with four-wheel drive - also evident in the new designations. The rear-wheel drive vehicles were called C ( Conventional), all-wheel drive K. The visible on the car names were the names previously used: the series 10, 20 and 30 (C or K) were, for example, referred to as Apache 10, Series 40, 50 and 60 were called, for example, Viking 40 and the large series 70, 80 and 90 carried, for example, the name Spartan 70th 1960 there was the Chevrolet C / K pickups as Fleetside or Stepside, GMC models were called the Wide Side and Fenderside. The half- ton truck with short chassis were C10/K10, the half- ton truck chassis with long C15/K15, the three-quarter ton truck C20/K20 and Eintonner C30.

In GMC, there were only four-wheel drive versions of the type K. In 1962, the car has a torsion bar on the front axle and pivot beam axle at the rear axle. There was a standard equipment and an upscale custom features. The drive was a 5.0 -liter V6 is available, otherwise inline six-cylinder with 3.9 or 4.3 liters and powers of 99 and 110 kW, and a 4.6 -liter V8 with 136 kW at GMC.

Starting in 1963, the front axle received coil springs, and a new standard engine was used, an inline six- cylinder with 3.8 liter displacement and 103 kW. On request, there was also a 4.8L R6 121 kW. 1964 the cab was changed, with the panoramic windshield was eliminated, but a new grille, and various changes in the interior were realized. Air conditioning and a 5.4 -liter V8 engine with 162 kW of power there was in 1965. Again in 1966, a new 4.1 -liter R6 114 kW has been introduced.

1967-1972

GMC Sierra Custom Camper (1972 )

A more modern look was the C-Series in 1967. Since this revision, General Motors marketed the C / K pickups as vans for general transport tasks, and not just as a workshop trolley. Most Chevrolet pickups of the series 10 and 20 were from 1967 to 1972 with coil springs and solid longitudinal rocker delivered to the rear axle, what their street location opposite the old models significantly improved with leaf springs. Nevertheless, there were for all pickups at the request continues to leaf springs in series 30 they were standard equipment.

In all GMC pickups had standard leaf springs, coil springs, however, were available on request. All -wheel-drive pickups - if Chevrolet or GMC - had leaf springs on both axles. The default drive is a 4.1 -liter R6 or a 4.6 -liter V8, each connected to a manual three-speed transmission served. On request, there was a manual four-speed transmission, a Powerglide automatic transmission or a Turbo Hydra-Matic. Further, available for an additional charge engines were a 4.8L R6 and a 5.4 -liter V8. The half- ton truck had six-hole rims with a bolt circle diameter of 5 ", the three-quarter -ton and the Eintonner eight-hole rims with a bolt circle diameter of 6".

In 1968 there was instead of the 4.6 -liter V8 a new 5.0 -liter V8, and the first time the 6.5- liter V8 with 228 kW of power was offered. The most visible change compared to the 1968 models were the new side reflectors on the front and rear fenders. The pickup truck with the extended cab was no longer there. The GMC vehicles received a new grille, where the letters GMC were no longer highlighted on the cross bar. It is important for conservators that the somewhat less inclined bonnet (about 65 °) of the 1967 and 1968 models did not fit the front fenders of the 1969-1972 -crafted models.

Was also a Custom Comfort and Convenience interior package that was between the standard version and the CST design New. 1968 Chevrolet celebrated the 50th anniversary of truck manufacturing. Also in 1968 there was the three-quarter ton truck as Longhorn model. The Longhorn was equipped for recording with a strong, 2,590 mm ​​long box, which could accommodate a loose Camping construction.

1969 there was a new 5.7 -liter V8 engine with 188 kW. In addition, the model was again a new grille for Chevrolet and a less inclined front end for the Chevrolet and GMC models. Also a new van variant called K5 Blazer was offered, which had a shorter wheelbase of 2,642 mm. A similar version called GMC Jimmy was introduced in the same year. In the interior, there were some changes, especially the move from hand brake lever to a parking brake pedal. A modern two-spoke steering wheel with Kunststoffhupknopf replaced the previous three-spoke steering wheel with chrome horn button. New this year were also the top and bottom plates which there were two colors. Two-color side panels were fitted as standard in the execution CST, available for the other versions on request.

The only notable change in 1970 was a slight revision of the Chevrolet grille. At first glance, the designs of 1969 and 1970 looked the same. However, the plastic inserts of the 1970 model have color trims, which divide the grill in six separate sections. In 1971, there were more extensive changes, initially a different grille in the egg carton pattern that graced the Chevrolet variants. The GMC grille was partially painted black. Second, there was a new equipment package named Cheyenne. The GMC Sierra models it said. These packages consisted mainly of comfort features - a more elegant interior, a thicker padding and better insulation, carpets, equipment, and a chrome embellishments on side plates and tailgate. 1971 AM / FM radios were installed at the factory for the first time.

In addition, in all pickups disc brakes instead of drum brakes have been fitted, resulting in significantly less fading at high load. While many prior C / K half- ton six-hole rims with a bolt pattern of 5.5 " possessed, had the rear-drive models only five-hole rims with a bolt pattern of 5 " as the cars of the Buick, Oldsmobile, Pontiac and Cadillac. The all-wheel - half ton truck remained in the six- hole rims. This type of rim was maintained until the end of the series. Also, Chevrolet changed the designation " 396 V8" (corresponding to the displacement of the engine in ³) in " 400 V8"; but this was only a cosmetic change.

The 1972 models were virtually identical to those of 1971. Merely the interior mirror was glued to the windshield instead of bolted to the roof lining as in the earlier models. Flat door panels made of metal or plastic, no longer existed, All fairings were only formed with integrated armrests and also in Cheyenne and Sierra with imitation wood inserts.

Motors

Bolt circle diameter on wheels

Equipment lines

In turn, the equipment lines of the Chevrolet pickups from 1967 to 1972 were:

1967-1970:

• C/10 - Basic Model
• Custom/10 - ' medium model '
• CST/10 - ' top model ' (CST = Custom Sport Truck )

1971:

• Custom/10 - Basic Model
• CST/10 - ' medium model '
• Cheyenne/10 - ' top model '

The end of 1971, 1972:

• CST/10 - Basic Model
• Cheyenne/10 - ' medium model '
• Cheyenne Super - ' top model '
• Cheyenne Highlander - special equipment package

The designation 10, 20, or 30 referred to Chevrolet pickups with ½, ¾, or 1 ton payload.

The GMC models from 1967 to 1970 had the same names as the Chevrolet; however, welcomed the equipment lines 1500, 1500 and Super Custom Custom 1500 From 1971 this changed in. :

• Custom 1500 - base model
• Super Custom 1500 - medium model
• Sierra 1500 - top model

And the end of 1971 and 1972 in ::

• Super Custom 1500 - base model
• Sierra 1500 - medium model
• Sierra Grande 1500 - top model
• Sierra Highlander 1500 - special equipment package.

The term in 1500, 2500 and 3500 referred to GMC pickups with ½, ¾ or 1 ton payload.

Both brands included the Highlander package special color-coordinated fabric inserts, extra color combinations and insulation measures.

1973-1991

Chevrolet C- Series / K- series (1981-1987)

1973-1974

• Fuel tanks are no longer housed in the cab and its volume is greatly increased; On request there are two tanks ( up to 180 ltr. )
• This series had a longer wheelbase ( 2,985 mm and 3,340 mm).
• There are vehicles with crew cab and even longer wheelbase ( 4,178 mm) in two versions: The bonus Cab has rear seats but no additional lockable storage space
• The double cab 3 3 has six seats in two rows.

• 4.1 l -R6 with 77 kW
• 4.8L R6 with 88 kW
• 5.05 liter V8 engine with 96 kW (only 1973)
• 5.7 liter V8 with 184 kW
• 7.4 liter V8 with 180 kW

• The following equipment lines are available for Chevrolet and GMC:

• Custom / Sierra - base model. Rubber floor mats, vinyl seats, no headliner, mechanical door locks and window operations.

• Scottsdale / Sierra Grande - chrome Equipment Equipment of Custom / Sierra

• Cheyenne / High Sierra - Ornaments made ​​of brushed aluminum interior, cloth seats, chrome fittings, carpet, air conditioning, headliner, better sound insulation ( in the doors, headliner, etc.)

• Cheyenne Super / Sierra Classic - Ornaments made ​​of real wood, all amenities available for Cheyenne ( High Sierra ), extensive chrome fittings ( particularly bumper and mirror ), Tilt Wheel, power windows and power door locks, optional cruise control. The Cowboy Cadillac!

1975

• There is a motor in addition: 6.6 -liter V8 with 136 kW ( 1975-1980 ).

• GM introduces two new trim levels: The Silverado replaces Cheyenne Super and Custom Deluxe replaces the custom.

• Custom Deluxe / Sierra - base model. Rubber floor mats, vinyl seats, no headliner, mechanical door locks and windows, painted bumpers.

• Scottsdale / Sierra Grande - Ornaments of imitation wood, chrome fittings, cloth seats, features the Custom Deluxe / Sierra.

• Cheyenne / High Sierra - Carpets, door pockets, chrome interior, air conditioning, overhead and better sound insulation ( in the doors, the headlining, etc.)

• Silverado / Sierra Classic - all amenities available for Cheyenne / High Sierra, more chrome (especially bumpers and mirrors), Tilt Wheel, power windows and power door locks, optional cruise control. The Cowboy Cadillac!

1976

• A voltmeter replaced the ammeter in the instrument package.

1977

• An electric oil pressure gauge replacing the mechanical in the instrument package.
• There is a Eintonner with all-wheel drive ( K30 Chevrolet / GMC K3500 ).

1978

• It is a 5.7 -liter V8 diesel engine with 92 kW of Oldsmobile introduced (available until 1981 ) ..

1980

• Last year for the 6.6 -liter V8 with 136 kW.

• Modified instrument recording.
• Silverado / Sierra Classic - Instead of wood Imitates there is brushed aluminum.
• Standard halogen lighting.
• Amended decoration on the sides of the vehicle.
• A shallower grille and a shorter bonnet change the front.
• Motors 5.0 -liter V8, with 118 kW.
• Last year for the 5.7 -liter V8 diesel from Oldsmobile.

• Changes in the four-wheel drive: Automatically closing hubs on the front wheels for light pickups.
• The lightweight NP208 aluminum differential replaced the NP205 and NP203 heavy cast iron for the lighter pickups.
• The NP205 there are still in the heavy pickups, but without all-wheel drive.

1982

• 6.2 liter V8 diesel engine with 111 kW Detroit Diesel additionally.
• Four-step Automatic TH700 -R4 with overdrive is introduced.

1985

• The 4.3 -liter V6 replaces both inline six- cylinder.
• There are hydraulically actuated clutches.

A variation of the C / K pickups introduced in Brazil in 1985 and replaced the manufactured there since 1964 Chevrolet Varaneio.

1987

• An electronic speedometer ( with sensor for TBI) replaces the mechanical model.
• GM introduces the TBI injection.
• GM changes from the designation C - Series / K-Series R- Series / V Series ( forms the 5th digit in the VIN number ). R / V is a transition label, which remains in use for the rest of the production time of the third generation to 1991. From 1988, the designations C- series and K series for the fourth generation " GMT400 " design be used.

Side Saddle Fuel Tanks

In the third generation of the large Chevrolet pickups, the fuel tank was moved out of the cab under the floor of the cabin, where it extended even up under the front part of the trailer. This design change was called " Side Saddle " and still held long after the end of production for many discussions. Thus, the volumetric capacity of the tanks of 72 liters is enlarged. up to 180 liters. Depending on wheelbase and number of tanks. In addition, the tank had no more connection with the passenger space.

According to the Data Line Report of 1993, this construction, however, the risk of tank explosion hid in a side impact. But there is in the individual sources large differences in the number of detected deaths that could be attributed to it. A study by Failure Analysis Associates points in the period 1973-1989 at these GM pickups to 155 deaths from side impact, thus causing vehicle fires. Ralph Nader's Center for Auto Safety found more than 1,800 deaths, which could be attributed 1973-2000 on side impact caused by vehicle fires. GM never prompted a recall as actually required by NHTSA.

1993 caused the bad reputation by the later deleted Dataline report several class action lawsuits. As compensation GM U.S. $ 1,000 --- vouchers offered while delivering the old pickups to buy new GM pickups. Although the pickups met the then applicable NHTSA standards for side impact at 24 and 32 km / h, GM agreed with the NHTSA in 1994 to a payment of $ 51 million, which should be used for safety programs. The fourth generation (1988-2001) was constructed long before these processes with the fuel tank between the side rails of the frame.

1988-1999

Chevrolet C2500 / K2500 ( 1988-1990)

In April 1987, the 1988 models were (known as the GMT400 platform) introduced in eight different versions: Fleetside, Fleetside with an extended cab, Fleetside Double Cab and Stepside - each version as a rear-drive model (C) and all-wheel drive model (K). All these models possessed independent front suspension. There were three trim levels: Cheyenne, Scottsdale, and Silverado. For driving following engines were available: 4.3 -liter V6 with 118 kW, 5.0 -liter V8 with 129 kW, 5.7 -liter V8 with 154 kW and 6.2 -liter V8 diesel. For three-quarter -ton and Eintonner there was also a 7.4 -liter V8 with 169 kW.

1989, there were a Fleetside Sport Package, the bumper and grille in body color, chrome wheels and fog lights included. A Z71 off-road package was available, with sand plates and Bilstein shock absorbers. 1990 Work Truck ( W / T) was introduced, a Cheyenne pickup with single cabin, a new grille and black bumpers. Also in 1990 the GMC 3500 EFI appeared with the powerful 7.4 -liter V8. He made 230 bhp (169 kW) and brought it to a torque of 522 Nm. As of 1991, there was the GM 4L80 automatic transmission for three-quarter and Eintonner. 1992 accounted for the manual four-speed transmission and the Stepside was to get even with extended cab. The 6.5 -liter V8 diesel, there were also turbocharged.

As of 1993, there were the sports package for the Stepside; it included bumpers, mirrors and grille in body color and cast aluminum wheels. The transmission was replaced with the 700R4 automatic 4L60 -E 1993, 1994 accounted for the diesel engine, and there was a new grille. 1995 pickups got a new audio system and new instruments, with a trip odometer in all versions now part of the standard equipment. Also from 1995, standard equipment included an ABS and a front passenger airbag in the half- ton trucks. In 1996, the GM Vortec V8 engines were introduced. New cylinder heads and camshafts and cam followers and a higher compression provided a substantial performance increase. 1997, all pickups received a speed sensitive power steering and side airbags on the passenger side. In 1998, the steering wheel and the airbag system have been retuned and a PassLock II - built-in siren.

This series was one of the two, in which last the old Chevrolet 5, 7 liter V8 ( Small Block ) was built (the other was the G- series to 2002).

The GMT800 platform was introduced in 1999, the GMT400 platform was not produced until the 2000 model year for fleet models. At that time this platform was no longer produced in the U.S., but in Brazil, where the vehicles are powered by a Chevrolet inline six- cylinder.

SS 454

In 1990, Chevrolet a high-performance variant of the GMT400 under the name Super Sport SS 454 and named it They existed only normal cab as a half- ton truck in onyx black. The car was powered by a 7.4 liter V8 engine with 169 kW and a torque of 522 Nm. A three-speed automatic and a final drive with a gear ratio of 3,73:1 ran the engine power to the rear axle on. The suspension was upgraded with 32 mm Bilstein gas shock absorbers and a 32 mm stabilizer at the front axle. The steering ratio was 12,7:1.

The remarkable thing about the exterior decoration was a front carrier with fog lamps, special wheel arches, signs with the words " SS 454 " on the sides of the vehicle, red emblem with a designation of the equipment line and black bumpers, mirrors and grille. Inside, there was a soft padding with garnet - red fabric and black trim, folding sports seats with high backs and a center console.

The list price of the 1990 model was U.S. $ 18,295 - plus U.S. $ 550, - delivery fee. 16,953 copies were sold by the SS 454 in about four years total; the first year alone in 1990, there were 13,748 units. In 1994, the SS was 454 no longer offered.

Brazilian versions

In the 1960s, a variant of the C / K .Familie was introduced in Brazil. This had the mechanics of the C / K series from the USA in the years 1960-1966, the bodies came but manufactured in Brazil. There was a pickup truck called C10 and an SUV called Varaneio (initially as a Chevrolet C1416 known), which was introduced in 1964. At first she had a six-cylinder engine from Chevrolet. Later, a four-cylinder diesel Perkins came about - the model was then D10 ( pickup only ). Beginning of the 1980s there was also a version with ethanolgetriebenem engine as A10.

From 1986 there was a revised model that looked similar to the U.S. counterparts of the years 1973 to 1987 and was referred to as C20. The engine was based on the Chevrolet Nova. The diesel and alcohol versions were called D20, and A20. Later, the Perkins diesel engines were replaced by those of Maxion. The old version of Varaneio remained until model year 198 in production, but was also replaced by a revised version based on the C20.