The C/K is the name for Chevrolet's full-size pickup truck line from 1960 until 1998 and GMC's full-size pickup truck line from 1960-1988. The first Chevrolet pickup truck appeared in 1924, though in-house designs did not appear until 1930. "C" trucks had two-wheel drive while "K" models had four-wheel drive. The C/K light-duty pickup truck was replaced with the GMC Sierra in 1988 and the Chevrolet Silverado in 1999; the Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD heavy-duty pickup trucks followed in 2001.

1960-1966

First generation

Also called
C10/K10
C15/K15
C20/K20
C30

Engine(s)
236 in³ (3.9 L) Chevrolet I6
261 in³ (4.3 L) Chevrolet I6
283 in³ (4.6 L) Small-block V8
307 in³ (5.0 L) Small-block V6
230 in³ (3.8 L) Chevrolet I6
292 in³ (4.8 L) Chevrolet I6
327 in³ (5.4 L) Small-block V8
250 in³ (4.1 L) Chevrolet I6

The 1960 model year introduced a new body style of light pick-up truck that featured many firsts. Most important of these were a drop-center ladder frame, allowing the cab to sit lower, and independent front suspension, giving an almost car-like ride in a truck. Also new for 1960 was a new designation system for trucks made by GM. Gone was the 3100, 3200, and 3600 designations for short 1/2, long 1/2 and 3/4-ton models. Instead, a new scheme would assign a 10, 20, or 30 for 1/2, 3/4, and 1-ton models. Since 1957, trucks were available from the factory as 4-wheel drive, and the new class scheme would make this known, a C in front of the series number would indicate 2-wheel rear drive, a K would denote 4-wheel drive. Actual badging on trucks still carried the series name system from the previous generation. The 10, 20, and 30 series (C or K) were badged as "Apache 10", etc., 40, 50, and 60 series trucks were badged as "Viking 40", and the largest 70, 80, and 90 series models were marked "Spartan 70" etc. in 1960, C/K trucks were available in smooth "Fleetside" or fendered "Stepside" versions. GMC called these "Wideside" and "Fenderside." Half-ton models were the C10 and K10 short-bed trucks, and C15 and K15 long-bed trucks. The 3/4-ton C20 and K20, as well as the one-ton C30, were also available. GMC did not use the "C" nomenclature, though their 4x4 versions had the "K" designation. The 1962 model used torsion bar front suspension, with trailing arm suspension rear. Trim lines were base and "Custom." Engines included 135 hp (101 kW) 236 in³ (3.9 L) and 150 hp (112 kW) 261 in³ (4.3 L) straight-6s, and a 283 in³ (4.6 L) V8 with 185 hp (119 kW). GMC trucks were also offered with the 307 in³ (5.0 L) V8 engine, which ranged in power from 125 hp (93 kW) to 142 hp (106 kW). A coil-spring front suspension came in 1963; along with a new base engine, a 140 hp (104 kW) 230 in³ (3.8 L) I6, and an optional 165 hp (123 kW) 292 in³ (4.8 L) I6. The cab was changed for 1964, with elimination of the "wraparound" windshield and a new front grille design, along with various interior changes. Air conditioning and a 220 hp (164 kW) 327 in³ (5.4 L) V8 came in 1965. A new base engine finished the model in 1966 with a 155 hp (116 kW) 250 in³ (4.1 L) I6.



1967-1972

Second generation

1967–1972

Assembly
Atlanta, GA
Baltimore, MD
Pontiac, MI
Flint, MI
Tarrytown, NY
Kansas City, MO
St. Louis, MO
Janesville, WI
Norwood, OH
Fermont, CA
Oshawa, ON

Engine(s)
283 in³ (4.6 L) Small-block V8
307 in³ (5.0 L) Small-block V8
350 in³ (5.7 L) Small-block V8
396 in³ (6.5 L) Big-block V8 250 in³ (4.1 L) I6Chevrolet
292 in³ (4.8 L) I6Chevrolet

Transmission(s)
3 speed manual
4 speed manual
Powerglide
Turbo-Hydromatic
Wheelbase 115" Shortbed
127" Longbed
133" Longhorn

1967 A new, more modern look came in 1967. It was with this revision of the C/K truck that General Motors began to market trucks as general transportation rather than as work vehicles and nothing else. One 1968 magazine ad ran with the line "A Chevy pickup is built to be womanhandled." This was evident throughout its construction; the majority of 10 and 20 series Chevrolet trucks from 1967 to 1972 were shipped with a coil spring trailing arm rear suspension, which greatly improved the ride over traditional leaf springs. However, leaf spring rear suspension was available on all trucks, and standard on 30 series trucks. GMC models came standard with leaf springs with coils springs optional; all four-wheel drive models (Chevrolet & GMC) had leaf springs on both axles. The standard drivetrain came with a 3 speed manual transmission and one of two engines; the 250 in³ straight-6 or the 283 in³(4.6 L) V8. The optional transmissions were the 4 speed manual, the Powerglide and the Turbo-Hydromatic. The 292 in³ straight-6 and the 327 in³ V8 were the optional engines. The 1/2 ton trucks came with a (6 x 5.5") bolt pattern. However the 3/4 and 1 ton trucks came with (8 x 6.5") bolt pattern. 1968 In 1968, the 283 in³ (4.6 L) V8 was replaced with a 307 in³ (5.0 L) and a 310 hp (231 kW) 396 in³ (6.5 L) V8 was offered for the first time. The most visible change in differentiating a 1968 from a 1967 was the addition of side-marker reflectors on all fenders. Also, the small rear window cab was no longer available. The GMC grille was revised, with the letters "GMC" no longer embossed in the horizontal crossbar. Another note for restoration is that the 1967-68 hood was more sloped and without 67-68 fenders, the hood will not fit 1969-1972 models. Another addition was the Custom Comfort and Convenience interior package that fell between the Standard cab and CST cab options. 1968 was also the year that Chevrolet celebrated 50 years of truck manufacturing. Also in 1968 the 3/4 ton Longhorn model was added to the lineup. The Longhorns were designed with a strong 8 1/2 foot box that could hold a big slide-in truck camper. 1969 1969 saw a new V8 engine: a 255 hp (190 kW) 350 in³ (5.7 L). Along with the new engines came a new grille design for Chevrolet trucks and a more upright hood for both Chevrolet and GMC trucks. A utility variant known as the K5 Blazer was also introduced with a shorter wheelbase of 104 inches (2,642 mm). The GMC version, known as the Jimmy, was introduced the same year. Some internal cab changes were also made, most notably the switch from a hand-operated parking brake to a foot pedal. 1970 The only noticeable change for 1970 was a minor update to the Chevrolet grille. At first glance, the 1969 and 1970 grille appear identical. However, 1970's plastic inserts actually have highlites that break the appearance into 6 separate sections. 1971 Several changes occurred in 1971. First came another new grille design (the "egg crate") for Chevrolet trucks and black paint over portions of the GMC grille. Second, an additional trim package was introduced: the Cheyenne. On GMC models, this was referred to as the Sierra. These packages consisted mostly of comfort features — nicer interiors, more padding and insulation, AM/FM radios, and two-tone paint with side molding options. Finally, the front brakes on all light-duty trucks were switched from drum brakes to disc brakes, resulting in much less brake fade under heavy use. While all prior C/K half-ton trucks had used a six-lug bolt pattern (6 x 5.5") for the wheels, two-wheel-drive models switched to a five-lug pattern (5 x 5" bolt circle) common to Buick, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, and Cadillac passenger cars. The 1/2 ton 4 x 4 retained the 6 lug bolt pattern. This bolt pattern would remain the standard through the end of the C/K series (along with the Chevrolet/GMC vans). Also, Chevrolet changed the 396 V8 emblem designation to 400 V8. The change was only cosmetic. 1972 1972 models were virtually identical to 1971 models with the only change being that the rear view mirror was glued to the windshield instead of being bolted to top of the cab, and metal or plastic flat door panels were no longer available; all trim levels had a more sculpted molded plastic door panel with integral armrests and wood grain inserts on Cheyenne and Sierra trim levels.

Trim Levels
C/10 - Base Model
Custom/10 - 'Mid Level'
CST/10 - 'Top of the Line' (CST=Custom Sport Truck)
1971:

Custom/10 - Base Model
CST/10 - 'Mid Level'
Cheyenne/10 - 'Top of the line'
Late 1971, 1972:

CST/10 - Base Model
Cheyenne/10 - 'Mid Level'
Cheyenne Super - 'Top of the Line'
Cheyenne Highlander - Special 'Above top of line' package
A 10, 20, or 30 on the emblem indicates 1/2, 3/4, or 1 ton trucks.

GMC models form 1967 to 1970 used the same trim levels as the Chevrolets, except that the GMC trim levels were 1500, Custom 1500, and Super Custom 1500. Starting in 1971 this changed to:

Custom 1500 - Base
Super Custom 1500 - Mid
Sierra 1500 - Top
And for late '71 and 1972:

Super Custom 1500 - Base
Sierra 1500 - Mid
Sierra Grande 1500 - Top
Sierra Highlander 1500 - Special extra top package.
On the GMC trucks 1500, 2500, and 3500 designations were used to indicate 1/2, 3/4, and 1 ton trucks.

In both series, the 'Highlander package' included special color-coordinated houndstooth cloth inserts and additional trim colors and insulation.

 

1973-1987

Third generation

Engine(s)
250 in³ (4.1 L) Chevrolet I6
350 in³ (5.7 L) Small-block V8
454 in³ (7.4 L) Big-block V8
350 in³ (5.7 L) LF9 Diesel V8
305 in³ (5.0 L) Small-block V8
292 in³ (4.8 L) Chevrolet I6
6.2 L Detroit Diesel V8
4.3 L Vortec 4300 V6

Wheelbase
117.5 in (2985 mm)
131.5 in (3340 mm)
164.5 in (4178 mm)

Facelifted GMC C/KThe completely new 1973 version would last 14 years (with two slightly different body styles) without a major redesign -- this would help keep resale values high. It was also the basis of the longest lasting Suburban body as well, as the 81-87 front end style lasted until 1991 in the fullsize Blazer and Suburban. The roof drip rails now hugged the door rather than around the roof. It had a longer wheelbase — 117.5 in (2985 mm) for short-bed and 131.5 in (3340 mm) for long-bed. A crew cab was introduced on a super-long 164.5 in wheelbase, the "3+3." For the four wheel drive trucks, a real all wheel drive system was added as an option in the early years (NP203 transfer case), but went to part time 4 wheel drive (NP205 and NP208 transfer case) in the early '80s. Engines were a 100 hp 250 in³ (4.1 L) I6, 220 hp 350 in³ (5.7 L) V8, and a 340 hp 454 in³ (7.4 L) V8. A four wheel drive one-ton truck was added in 1977, and a 350 in³ Oldsmobile LF9 Diesel V8 was added in 1978. Upon first release, these model trucks were named internally as "The Rounded Line", this is due to the rounded "nose" at the front of the fenders, and rounded styling of chrome trim that runs along the fenders. Though the name does not appear to apply to the 1981-1987 styles, because the fender slants downward slightly towards the front, and the chrome trim is removed in favor of a straight line that protrudes along the upper part of the fender, it technically is still part of the "Rounded Line" because of its parts interchangeability.

The trim lines for 1973 and 1974 were slightly different than 1975 and forward. In order, the new trim lines for Chevrolet and GMC were:

Custom/Sierra — base model. Rubber floor mat, cloth seats, no lower door panel carpet, no headliner, manual door locks/windows.
Scottsdale/Sierra Grande — chrome trim, everything the previous trim level had
Cheyenne/High Sierra — brushed aluminum interior accents, vinyl seats, chrome trim, carpet, air conditioning, headliner, more sound deadening/insulation (inside door panels, in the headliner, etc.).
Cheyenne Super/Sierra Classic — wood (brushed aluminum on 1981-87) interior accents, everything the previous trim level had, more chrome (i.e. bumpers and mirrors), tilt wheel, power doors/windows, and cruise control. The "Country Cadillac."

1975 introduced two important names as trim lines, Silverado for Chevrolet and Sierra for GMC. In order, the new trim lines for Chevrolet and GMC were:

Custom Deluxe/Sierra — base model. Rubber floor mat, cloth seats, no lower door panel carpet, no headliner, manual door locks/windows.
Scottsdale/Sierra Grande — chrome trim, everything the previous trim level had
Cheyenne/High Sierra — brushed aluminum interior accents, vinyl seats, chrome trim, carpet, air conditioning, headliner, more sound deadening/insulation (inside door panels, in the headliner, etc.).
Silverado/Sierra Classic — wood (brushed aluminum on 1981-87) interior accents, everything the previous trim level had, more chrome (i.e. bumpers and mirrors), tilt wheel, power doors/windows, and cruise control. The "Country Cadillac."

One thing that dealers were notorious for was selling a cheaper trim level, and piling on options at a higher cost. For example, if a dealer sold a Chevrolet Custom, with chrome trim, headliner, air conditioning, and carpeting, it would actually cost more than a base model Cheyenne! This would, however, result in a higher commission to the salespersons because of a higher total cost of the vehicle. Because of this it is not uncommon to find a Scottsdale with 'extras' such as carpeting or air conditioning. There are even accounts of owners with a 'fully loaded' Custom Deluxe. The Third Generation of Chevrolet's full size pickup-truck line featured what became, well after production ended, a controversial design change. The fuel tank was relocated from the cab to outboard sides of one or both frame rails beneath the cab floor extending under the leading edge of the bed, commonly referred to as sidesaddle. This enlarged fuel capacity from 16 up to 40 gallons depending on wheelbase and the number of tanks. This also removed the tank from the passenger compartment. According to the now debunked 1993 report aired on Dateline this placement made the trucks capable of exploding when involved in a side impact accident. Fatality figures vary wildly. Failure Analysis Associates cited in this case study listed 155 fatalities in these GM trucks between 1973 & 1989 involving both side impact and fire. The Center For Auto Safety Ralph Nader's group, lists "over 1,800 fatalities" between 1973 & 2000 involving both side impact and fire. GM never issued a recall, as recommended by the NHTSA. In 1993 the bad publicity generated by the later debunked Dateline story spawned a class action lawsuit. As settlement GM offered owners $1000 coupons toward the purchase of a new truck with a trade-in of the old one. Even though the trucks met NHTSA 15 and 20mph side impact crash test standards in place at the time of manufacture GM eventually settled with the NHTSA in 1994 for the amount of $51 million to be used for safety programs. The Fourth Generation (1988-2001) was designed and produced well before the lawsuits with one fuel tank inside the frame rails.

The revised 1981 model had a new 160 hp (119 kW) 305 in³ (5.0 L) V8, with the 250 and 292 in³ (4.1 and 4.8 L) I6, 350 in³ (5.7 L) V8, and 454 in³ (7.4 L) V8 also available. A 6.2 L Detroit Diesel V8 and TH700R4 overdrive debuted for 1982. Vortec 4300 was introduced as the base engine and hydraulic clutches were introduced for 1985. For 1987 GM introduced TBI fuel injectionto meet EPA emissions standards. GM changed the "C" designation to "R" and the "K" to "V" for all 1987 pickups to prepare for the introduction of the fourth generation GMT400 platform in April 1987. The GM C/K designation continued in use on the fourth generation trucks "GMT400" design. The R/V designation remained in use for the remaining production Third Generation full ton 35, dually, crewcab, and SUVs (Chevrolet K5 Blazer and Suburban) until 1991. A variation of the C/K series was introduced in 1985 in Brazil, replacing the locally-produced C10, introduced in 1964. This generation's longevity is the basis for Chevy's slogan, "The Most Dependable, Longest Lasting Trucks on the Road."

 

1988-1999

Production 1988–1999

Assembly
Pontiac, Michigan
Flint, Michigan

Engine(s)
6.2 L Detroit Diesel V8
4.3 L Vortec 4300 V6
5.0 L Vortec 5000 V8
5.7 L Vortec 5700 V8
7.4 L Big-block V8
6.5 L Detroit Diesel V8

Transmission(s)
4-speed 700R4 automatic
4-speed 4L60-E automatic
4-speed 4L80-E automatic
4-speed manual
5-speed manual

Wheelbase
117.5 in (2985 mm)
131.5 in (3340 mm)
141.5 in (3594 mm)
155.5 in (3950 mm)

Length
194.5 in (4940 mm)
213.1 in (5413 mm)
218.5 in (5550 mm)
237.4 in (6030 mm)

Width
76.8 in (1951 mm)
77.1 in (1958 mm)
Height 73.2 in (1859 mm)
72.6 in (1844 mm)

GMT400 GMC C/K Work Truck Introduced in April 1987 as 1988 models (known as the GMT400 platform), there were eight different versions of the C/K line for 1988: Fleetside Single Cab, Fleetside Extended Cab, Fleetside Crew Cab, and Stepside Single Cab, each in either 2WD (C) or 4WD (K) drivelines. Three trim levels were available: Cheyenne, Scottsdale, and Silverado. Engines were a 160 hp (119 kW) 4.3 L V6, a 175 hp (130 kW) 5.0 L V8, a 210 hp (157 kW) 5.7 L V8 and a 6.2 L diesel V8. A 230 hp (172 kW) 7.4 L V8 was available in the 3/4-ton and one-ton trucks. In 1989, a fleetside Sport package was available with matching body color bumpers and grille, chrome wheels, and fog lights. A Z71 off-road package was also available with skid plates and Bilstein shocks. The Work Truck (W/T) was also introduced in 1990, which featured a single cab long bed with Cheyenne trim and new grille with black bumpers. In 1991, the 4L80-E automatic transmission was available for the 3/4-ton and one-ton trucks. In 1992, the 4-speed manual transmission was dropped and the stepside trucks were available with extended cabs. The 6.5 L diesel V8 was also made available with a turbocharger. In 1993, the Sport package was made available for the stepside models, featuring body color bumpers, mirrors, and grille with cast aluminum wheels. The 700R4 transmission was replaced with the 4L60-E automatic in 1993 also. In 1994, the 6.2 L diesel V8 was dropped and the trucks received grille updates. In 1995, the trucks received an updated interior and audio system. Four wheel ABS brakes were made standard in 1995 as well as driver's side airbag on 1/2 ton models. The Vortec V8s were introduced in 1996, with power boosts across the board for the gasoline engines, thanks to high-flow cylinder heads, new camshaft, roller valve lifters and a higher compression ratio. Speed sensitive steering was introduced on the trucks in 1997 along with a passenger side airbag. 1998 saw a revision to the steering wheel and airbag system and also the addition of the PASSLOCK II antitheft system. This platform was one of two where the traditional small-block Chevrolet V8 was last used (the G-series van was the last platform using the small block until the end of the 2002 model year). The GMT800 platform was introduced in 1999 although the GMT400 platform was produced until the 2000 model year in response to fleet sales. Although no longer produced in the U.S., GMT400s are currently produced in Brazil powered with a Chevrolet inline six.


454 SS
In 1990, Chevrolet introduced a high performance variant of the GMT400 under the Super Sport brand called the 454 SS. It was available in only regular cab half-ton specification in Onyx Black. The 454 SS was powered by a 454 cu in (7.4 L) V8 producing 230 hp (172 kW) and 385 ft·lbf (522 N·m). A 3-speed automatic transmission and 3.73 rear axle ratio added to the truck's performance. The suspension was also upgraded with 32 mm (1.3 in) Bilstein gas-filled shock absorbers, a 32 mm (1.3 in) front stabilizer bar, and 12.7:1 fast-ratio steering gear assembly. Unique exterior features included a front air dam with fog lights, special rims, decals displaying "454 SS" on the trunk sides, red trim emblems, and black painted grille, bumpers, and mirrors. The interior was also unique with a special plush Garnet Red cloth with black trim, high-back reclining sport bucket seats, and center console. MSRP of the 1990 model was US$18,295 with a US$550 destination charge. 16,953 total units were sold over the 4 years the 454 SS was in production with 1990, the first year of production, selling 13,748 units alone. The 454 SS was discontinued after the 1993 model year.


Veraneio
Chevrolet Veraneio (initially known simply as Chevrolet C-1416) was a SUV manufactured by General Motors in Brazil from 1964 - 1988, somewhat similar to the U.S. Suburban. It was based on the C10 pickup truck, a Brazilian version of the same truck sold in the North American market. The Veraneio used the instrument cluster from the 1960-66 US Chevrolet C/K series although the exterior sheetmetal is exclusive to Brasil. Veraneios were powered with a Chevrolet inline six (based on the pre-1962 Stovebolt powerplants). After 1985, a redesigned pickup similar to the U.S. C/K series (1973-87 vintage) was introduced as the C10 (these were badged as the A10, D10, C20, A20, and D20), powered with the GM inline six (U.S. version based on the motor used in the U.S. Chevy II/Nova). A four-cylinder diesel was unique to the Brazilian market.

 

Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra
Chevrolet Cheyenne (Mexico Only)
GMC Sierra

Production
1999–present

Assembly
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Flint, Michigan
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Pontiac, Michigan
Silao, Mexico
Toluca, Mexico

Body style(s)
2-door truck
4-door truck

Half-ton

Production
1999–2006

Engine(s)
4.3 L Vortec 4300 V6
4.8 L Vortec 4800 V8
5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8
6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8

Transmission(s)
4-speed automatic
5-speed manual

Wheelbase
119 in (3023 mm)
133 in (3378 mm)
143.5 in (3645 mm)
157.5 in (4001 mm)
134 in (3404 mm)
153 in (3886 mm)

Length
205.7 in (5225 mm)
224.5 in (5702 mm)
249 in (6325 mm)
230.2 in (5847 mm)
220.2 in (5593 mm)
237.3 in (6027 mm)
227.7 in (5784 mm)

Width
78.5 in (1994 mm)
79.7 in (2024 mm)

Height
71.2 in (1808 mm)
71 in (1803 mm)
70.8 in (1798 mm)
72.6 in (1844 mm)
70.8 in (1798 mm)
77 in (1956 mm)

Heavy Duty

Production
2001–2007.5

Engine(s)
6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8
8.1 L Vortec 8100 V8
6.6 L Duramax V8

Transmission(s)
4-speed 4L65-E automatic
5-speed Allison 1000 automatic (2001-2005)
6-speed Allison 1000 automatic (2006-2007)

Wheelbase
133 in (3378 mm)
157.5 in (4001 mm)
167 in (4242 mm)
143.5 in (3645 mm)
153 in (3886 mm)

Length
224.5 in (5702 mm)
249 in (6325 mm)
258.5 in (6566 mm)
230.2 in (5847 mm)
239.7 in (6088 mm)

Width
96.1 in (2441 mm)
79.7 in (2024 mm)
Height 76.7 in (1948 mm)
77.3 in (1963 mm)
76.2 in (1935 mm)
77 in (1956 mm)

Half-ton

Production
2007.5–Present

Engine(s)
4.3L 195 hp (145 kW) V6
4.8L 295 hp (220 kW) V8
5.3L 315 hp (235 kW) V8
5.3L 315 hp (235 kW) V8
5.3L 315 hp (235 kW) V8
5.3L 315 hp (235 kW) V8
6.0L 367 hp (274 kW) V8

Transmission(s)
4-speed automatic
5-speed manual (Mexico Only starts in 2008 model 4.3 V6 Trucks)

Wheelbase
119 in (3023 mm)
133 in (3378 mm)
133.9 in (3401 mm)
143.5 in (3645 mm)
157.5 in (4001 mm)

Length
205.6 in (5222 mm)
224.5 in (5702 mm)
220.3 in (5596 mm)
229.9 in (5839 mm)
248.8 in (6320 mm)

Width
79.9 in (2029 mm)

Height
73.8 in (1875 mm)
73.7 in (1872 mm)
73.5 in (1867 mm)

Heavy Duty

Production
2007.5–Present

Engine(s)
6.0L 312 hp (233 kW) V8
6.0L 353 hp (263 kW) V8
6.6L 365 hp (272 kW) V8

Transmission(s)
6-speed automatic

Wheelbase
133 in (3378 mm)
143.5 in (3645 mm)
157.5 in (4001 mm)
153 in (3886 mm)
167 in (4242 mm)

Length
224.7 in (5707 mm)
230.3 in (5850 mm)
249.2 in (6330 mm)
239.9 in (6093 mm)
258.7 in (6571 mm)

Width
79.9 in (2029 mm)

Height
76.3 in (1938 mm)
76.9 in (1953 mm)
76.7 in (1948 mm)
77.2 in (1961 mm)

The Chevrolet Silverado (along with its GMC counterpart, the GMC Sierra), is the latest line of full-size pickup trucks from General Motors. As of 2006, the Silverado pickup is the 2nd largest volume vehicle in the United States, behind the Ford F-Series pickup truck. Combined with platform-mate GMC Sierra, the platform usually outsells the Ford F-Series, which is actually made of two different platforms for standard and heavy duty models, not counting SUV derivatives such as Suburban, Tahoe, Escalade, or Yukon. For the first half of 2007, 310,896 Silverados were sold in the U.S., compared with 355,438 Ford F-Series. With 99,293 GMC Sierras also sold in the same period.[1]

History
Although General Motors introduced its first pickup truck in 1930, the term "Silverado" was a designation only used to detail the higher-level trim for the Chevrolet C/K pickup trucks from 1975 through 1999. GMC used a few variations of the "Sierra" name (Sierra, High Sierra, Sierra Grande, Sierra Classic) to distinguish the different trim levels through 1987, though the "C/K" nomenclature was continued through 1999. "C" (or "R" for 1987) trucks had rear-wheel drive while "K" (or "V" in 1987) models had four-wheel drive. Both Chevrolet and GMC dropped the "C" and "K" designations in 1999. The Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks have been essentially the same for their entire history. The Silverado today is generally advertised as the "lower" version, while the Sierra has more luxury options. There are some trim and option variations as well. Early models included variations in the engine and equipment, but the present differences are slight. The 1999 redesign included different grilles and interior trim, and certain features (e.g. Quadrasteer) were included at different times on the two trucks.

GMT800
The GMT800 Silverado/Sierra 1500 (light pickup trucks) were released in 1998 as 1999 models. The "classic" light-duty GMT400 C/K trucks were continued in production for that first year alongside the new models, and the Heavy-Duty GMT400 pickups (alongside the GMT400 SUVs) were continued through 2000, with the new GMT800 Silverado/Sierra HD (Heavy Duty) introduced in 2001.

 

Light duty

1999-2002 GMT800 Silverado 1500
2003-2005 GMT800 Silverado 1500 crew cab
1999-2002 GMT800 GMC Sierra 1500
2003-2006 GMT800 GMC Sierra 1500There are a number of models of light-duty Silverados and Sierras, including the half-ton, SS, and Hybrid.

The light-duty trucks generally use the 1500 name. They are available in three cab lengths, 2-door short cab, 3 or 4-door extended cab, and front-hinged 4-door crew cab. Three cargo beds are available, including a 69.2 in (1,758 mm) short box, 78.7 in (1,999 mm) standard box, and a 97.6 in (2,479 mm) long box. The short box is only available with the extended or crew cab, and is the only option on the latter. For the first year, only the regular cab and 3-door extended cab were available, along with the Vortec 4300 V6 (regular cab only), Vortec 4800 V8, and the Vortec 5300 V8. A 4-door extended cab was added for 2000, and output on the 5.3 L engine increased by 25 hp (213 kW) and 35 ft·lbf (441 N·m). The 6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8 was added for the 2001 Heavy Duty models, rated at 30 hp (224 kW), with the GMC Sierra 1500 C3 getting an uprated 35 hp (242 kW) version of this engine. The Silverado Z71 got an optional lighter composite box, with a suspension package for towing, but lacked the high-output engine. The C3 became the Denali for 2002, and Quadrasteer was added. GM launched a reworked version of the Silverado/Sierra in 2003, with a new front end, and a slightly updated rear end.

Known Condition:
In November of 2007, Chevrolet acknowledged a condition that may affect the 2003 Silverado instrument panel gauges. The needles may stick, flutter or become inoperative. This may cause inaccurate readings, including the speedometer and the fuel gauge. According to some blogs, this condition has shown up in vehicles with as few as 28,000 miles (45,000 km). General motors is providing owners with a special coverage if your vehicle is less than 7 years old or 70,000 miles (110,000 km), whichever occurs first. If you are outside this coverage, you will not be covered. This is an acknowledged condition that Chevrolet refuses to give blanket coverage to all those affected. This condition may show itself at any point.


Models
Model Year Engine Power Torque
1500 Regular Cab 1999 4.3 L Vortec 4300 V6 200 hp (149 kW) 260 ft·lbf (353 N·m)
1999 4.8 L Vortec 4800 V8 255 hp (190 kW) 285 ft·lbf (386 N·m)
2000 270 hp (201 kW) 285 ft·lbf (386 N·m)
1999 5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8 270 hp (201 kW) 315 ft·lbf (427 N·m)
2000–2003 285 hp (213 kW) 325 ft·lbf (441 N·m)
2004 295 hp (220 kW) 335 ft·lbf (454 N·m)
1500 Extended Cab 1999 4.8 L Vortec 4800 V8 255 hp (190 kW) 285 ft·lbf (386 N·m)
2000 270 hp (201 kW) 285 ft·lbf (386 N·m)
1999 5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8 270 hp (201 kW) 315 ft·lbf (427 N·m)
2000–2003 285 hp (213 kW) 325 ft·lbf (441 N·m)
2004 295 hp (220 kW) 335 ft·lbf (454 N·m)
2006 6.0 L VortecMAX V8 345 hp (257 kW) 380 ft·lbf (515 N·m)
2008 6.0 L VortecMAX V8 367 hp (274 kW) 375 ft·lbf (508 N·m)
2500 1999–2004 6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8 300 hp (224 kW) 360 ft·lbf (488 N·m)
GMC Sierra C3 2001 6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8 325 hp (242 kW) 370 ft·lbf (502 N·m)
GMC Sierra Denali 2002–2005
2006 6.0 L VortecMAX V8 345 hp (257 kW) 380 ft·lbf (515 N·m)
Chevrolet Silverado SS 2003

GMC Sierra C3/Denali
GMC created an upscale version of its Sierra 1500 in 2001 called the Sierra C3. It used all-wheel drive and included the 6.0 L Vortec 6000 V8 rated at 325 hp (242 kW) with other upscale equipment. For 2002, the name was changed to Sierra Denali, but the specifications remained essentially the same except for the addition of Quadrasteer. The Denali received the 345 hp (257 kW) Vortec 6000 engine, previously used in the Silverado SS. The Denali is rated for towing 8,100 lb (3,674 kg) and hauling 1,575 lb (714 kg) in the cargo box. The Sierra Denali was initially equipped with Delphi's Quadrasteer system as standard equipment. It was a 4-wheel steering system that greatly reduced the truck's turning radius and improved lane changing while towing. General Motors dropped Quadrasteer from its entire lineup after 2005 due to poor sales of this expensive option. For the '07 model year, the Sierra Denali shares the same bullet grill from the other Denali models, and also has the same dash as the '07 SUV's. The '07 Sierra Denali is the only half ton pickup that has a 6.2 liter and 403 hp (301 kW) + 417 ft·lbf (565 N·m) of torque and six speed transmission. This truck is also an all wheel drive vehicle and goes 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds.


Chevrolet Silverado SS
Launched in 2003, the Silverado SS is a high-performance pickup truck built by Chevrolet. It is based on the standard 1500 Silverado, with upgrades in drive train and both exterior and interior appearance. It uses the 6.0 liter Vortec High-Output V8 rated at 345 hp (257 kW) at 5200 rpm and 380 ft·lbf (515 N·m) of torque at 4000 rpm. This was the same engine used for the second generation Cadillac Escalade. Chevrolet and GMC advertise this engine as the "VortecMAX", while Cadillac calls it the "HO 6000". The SS debuted with a standard All Wheel Drive setup, but was later changed to the current Rear Wheel Drive only format. The Silverado SS also comes with the Z60 performance suspension and 20 in (508 mm) chrome wheels. In 2006, Chevrolet released a special edition Silverado SS under the name "Intimidator SS" (licensed by Dale Earnhardt Inc.) that came with several minor appearance upgrades, but left the bulk of the truck the same. Its not yet known if GM will build A GMT900 Silverado SS.

Vortec High Output / Vortec Max
A 2004 GMC Sierra equipped with the optional VHO package.The Vortec High Output (also know as the VHO by some enthusiasts) was first introduced in 2004 to a limited market (mainly consisting of Texas and several surrounding areas). The VHO package (under option code B4V) included several options previously not found on the standard 1500 model, most notably the LQ9 6.0 liter V-8 engine (the same used for the Silverado SS and the Cadillac Escalade). The LQ9 motor was rated at 345 hp (257 kW) at 5200 rpm and 380 lbf·ft (515 N·m) of torque at 4000 rpm, which was the same specifications shared in the SS models. The package also included one style of the newly introduced GM 20 inch wheels installed from the factory. The B4V package could only be ordered on an extended cab, light duty, 2 wheel drive Silverado or Sierra. This marked the first time the LQ9 engine was available for a two wheel drive application. For the 2006 model year the Vortec Max package replaced the VHO with an array of similar features and new badges. It was also made available for crew cab models (in addition to the extended cab) and customers were able to purchase these trucks outside of the original market of the VHO. The Vortec Max Performance package boasts an industry leading 10,500 pounds towing capacity.

Hybrid
The engine compartment of a 2006 GMC Sierra HybridGM launched a hybrid version of the Silverado/Sierra in 2005, becoming the first ever GM hybrid vehicle. It is a mild hybrid design, with the electric motor serving only power accessories and the system also automatically shuts down when the truck brakes below 13 mph (21 km/h), and uses electric power to restart it. It uses three extra 14 V batteries mounted under the rear seats to store power. The truck uses a 5.3 L Vortec 5300 V8 for primary power. The truck features four 120 volt 20 amp AC outlets mounted in the bed. These are particularly interesting to the building/construction contractor market, since they often require AC power when on the job. Additionally, the extra reserves of power for the accessories make this truck well-suited to that market, where trucks often sit at idle for hours at a time. Availability was extremely limited at first, with commercial buyers getting the first allotment. Later in 2005, the truck was offered at retail in Alaska, California, Florida, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Finally, for 2006, the truck was generally available to retail buyers in all US states.

 

Heavy Duty

Pre-facelift GMT800 Silverado 2500
2006 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 (GMT800)The HD variant is a heavy-duty light truck. It is a strengthened version of the Silverado/Sierra light-duty, and is available in the 1500HD, 2500HD, and 3500 models. The 1500HD, introduced in 2001, offers a Vortec 6000 V8 with 300 hp (220 kW) at 5200 rpm and 360 ft·lbf (454 N·m) of torque at 4000 rpm with a Hydra-Matic four-speed transmission. The 2500HD also offers an available Duramax V8 with 360 hp (231 kW) at 3000 rpm and 650 ft·lbf (820 N·m) of torque at 1600 rpm. Also available is the Vortec 8100 V8 with 340 hp (242 kW) at 4200 rpm and 455 ft·lbf (606 N·m) of torque at 3200 rpm. The 2500HD has an available five-speed (six-speed for 2006-2007 models)Allison 1000 transmission. The Silverado 3500 offers the same engine/transmission features that the 2500HD does, however it is usually equipped with "dualie" twin wheels at the rear and has a much stronger chassis. The HD models are primarily used for towing and high-weight cargo. Towing capacity for the 1500HD is rated at 10,300 lb (4,672 kg), and can haul 3,129 lb (1,419 kg) in the bed. The 2500HD ups these ratings to 16,100 lb (7,303 kg) with the 8.1 litre engine or 10,600 lb (4808 kg) with the 6.0 litre engine, and 4,058 lb (1,841 kg), while the 3500 can tow 16,700 lb (7,575 kg) and haul 5,511 lb (2,500 kg). The addition of 4 wheel drive tends to reduce the towing and carrying capacity by 200 to 400 lb (181 kg), depending upon year and model. Other factors, such as options, can also affect these numbers.

GMT900
2007 GMC Sierra 1500 crew cab
2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT crew cab
2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD extended cabThe redesigned GMT900 generation of the Silverado/Sierra arrived in the last quarter of 2006 as a 2007 model. It features a redesigned exterior, interior, frame, and suspension as well as a power increases on certain engines. It takes styling cues from the 2007 GMT900 SUVs and the Chevrolet Colorado pickups. Like the GMT900 SUVs, these pickups also have greatly improved aerodynamics over their predecessors like steeply raked windshields and tighter panel gaps which improve fuel economy. The GMT800 models were continued in 2007 badged as "Classic", just as the GMT400 models continued for a year after the GMT800's introduction. The new Silverado earned the North American Truck of the Year award for 2007 and was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 2007. The half-ton Silverado has a starting price of $18,760 USD with its sibling, the GMC Sierra, being priced very similarly. Pricing for the Heavy Duty version begins at $24,575 for the 3/4-ton models, and $28,785 for the one-ton models. Like it's predecessors, the new Silverado offers buyers a choice of two door regular cabs, four door extended cabs (with rear doors that now open 170 degrees similar to the Nissan Titan) and four door crew cabs with the rear doors opening in the same direction as the front doors. GM also offers the trucks in the traditional two and four wheel drive configurations. The Generation III small block V8 engines offered in the GMT 800 trucks will be replaced in the GMT 900 series by the Generation IV small block V8 engine family, featuring upgrades such as increased power and Active Fuel Management on the 5.3 L and 6.0 L V8s. A new high performance 6.2 liter V8 (with 400+ horsepower and 420 lbf·ft (569 N·m) of torque) was introduced with the 2007 Cadillac Escalade and 2007 GMC Denali line. A two-mode hybrid model will be introduced in early 2008 as a 2009 model. [2] One notable omission is that the 8.1L big-block V8 is no longer offered on the Heavy Duty models, and no replacement has been announced. Its eventual successor is rumored to be a 7.5 L V10 based on the 6.0 L small-block V8, but nothing has been confirmed.[citation needed] The majority of the GMT 900 trucks continue to be equipped with the four speed transmission that was found on the GMT 800 platform. A more modern 6L80 6-speed transmission is standard equipment on the GMC Sierra Denali and the similar 6L90 is standard in all Heavy Duty models.[3] As production capacity is established, 6-speed transmissions are expected to replace 4-speed transmissions on the most truck models in coming years. There are two dash options offered in the new Silverado and Sierra. A luxury-inspired dash that closely mimics the dash in their GMT900 SUVs, and a "pickup" dash that is more upright to make way for a passenger seat in place of a center console. As of 2008, General Motors full size trucks are no longer sold in United States and Canada with manual transmission, only offered in Mexico in V6 engine package. s.[4]

Military Applications
A military version of the 2003 Silverado is called MILCOTS (Militarized Commercial Off-The-Shelf or colloquially as the "Milverado") and is being purchased by the Canadian Forces. CF has ordered 861 units from GM Defense.

Awards
1999 - Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year
2001 - Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year (Heavy Duty Model)
2001 - Car and Driver magazine's Best Pickup Truck
2002 - Car and Driver magazine's Best Pickup Truck
2003 - Car and Driver magazine's Best Pickup Truck
2007 - North American Truck of the Year
2007 - Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year
2007 - ICOTY International Truck of the Year[5]

Marketing

Like a Rock campaign
Like a Rock campaign emphasized Chevrolet Silverado as the best-selling, longest lasting truck on the road. The campaign ended in the 2004 model year. The jingle was Like a Rock by Bob Seger.


Our Country. Our Truck. campaign
On September 26, 2006, Chevrolet announced plans for a multi-media marketing campaign to support the 2007 Silverado full-size pickup as an extension to Chevrolet's An American Revolution campaign. The full campaign began on October 21, 2006 and featured the new tag line Our Country. Our Truck. The advertising videos used John Mellencamp's Our Country as their theme song. Two ads premiered during NBC's new Sunday Night Football in America. The first video, named Anthem, was designed to showcase the good and bad of the past half century and how America has made it through difficult times. The video is filled with images of historic moments in recent American history, such as a nuclear explosion, Rosa Parks on a bus, Martin Luther King giving a speech, the site of the former World Trade Center in the months after 9/11, Hurricane Katrina's devastation, then shows the trucks working to rebuild the devastated places, and ends with the tagline: This is our country. This is our truck.[8] The final broadcast version did not include images of the nuclear explosion nor of the World Trade Center.[9] Anthem has been criticized for using black rights activists to sell trucks and implying that there was a parallel between the struggles of the United States and the ongoing struggle General Motors is facing in today's marketplace. However, a representative from GM stated that this was not the intent of the advertisement.[10] Rather, the intent was to show how the trucks are used for work purposes, and the main audience for these trucks is for work. The second video, titled Birthplace, showed average American developing vehicles by unconventional means. The campaign also included a 28 minute long infomercial, premiered on 2006-12-9. The infomercial starred former NFL football player Howie Long and Gary White, General Motor's North American vehicle line executive for full-sized trucks. The infomercial premiered on channels such as Speed Channel. A 24-page publication was to be included with magazines such as Motor Trend, Field & Stream and Popular Science.

In January 2007, a Canadian version of Silverado ad started to appear, which was based on a variant of Birthplace previously shown on American channels. The ad uses a squared fonts for the texts, with images of forklifting timber, boy scouts, Dale Earnhardt, 'This is Our Chat Room' replaced by a skating hockey player, lighthouse on a rocky shoreline, and hockey player Bobby Orr. At the end of the video, the message was replaced by The Next Generation Chevy Silverado. The ad was being criticized for being unoriginal, and not truly reflect Canadian values. After winning the 2007 Motor Trend Truck of the Year award, another version of the ad showed the Silverado itself, with the message 2007 Motor Trend Truck of the Year at the end. Canadian version of the ad only has cosmetic and slogan changes after the Silverado had won its award.

 

wow! great info!!

 

yeah and just think, that those old C10's that everyone looks so hard up here for that are 40 years old, there are thousands of 15-20 year old ones in south america......

 

So your telling me that my old Chevy gasser, 94 v6 4.3L vortec Ext. Cab Side Step. had only 175 hp?

No wonder that thing ran in the 12's.....1/8th mile that is.

Nice info though

 

Did I miss "V" series ?
1989 3500 crew cab was still the old body style while others were new style
my 1989 V3500 CC LB 454 took 17 weeks to get as they were switching to Flint, Mi. when I ordered. I bought a S10 on friday, tired of waiting. It came on monday, they took S10 back. Their was over 25 problems/defects in the truck day one, I wish it would have took 18 weeks and been right. I still have the list somewhere.