1969 GMC C1500 Fenderside Pickup: Modern Power Meets Classic Style

1969 GMC C1500 Fenderside Pickup: Modern Power Meets Classic Style

This 1969 GMC C1500 Standard Fenderside pickup represents a compelling blend of vintage aesthetics and modern performance. Acquired by the seller in 2021, it underwent a comprehensive custom build completed in 2023, the centerpiece of which is the installation of a potent 6.2-liter LS3 V8 crate engine mated to a Muncie four-speed manual transmission. The chassis has been thoughtfully upgraded to enhance handling and braking, while the interior features modern comfort and instrumentation, creating a unique and engaging driving experience.

Classic Fenderside Styling with Custom Touches: The 1969 GMC C1500 Fenderside pickup is characterized by its distinctive step-side bed, a classic truck styling cue. This example is finished in a two-tone scheme, with a primary body color and a contrasting white roof, bumpers, and tailgate accents. The seller notes areas of thinning and worn paint visible around the body, adding to its character. The bed features a traditional wood-plank floor, cleverly concealing an aluminum fuel filler access door for the relocated fuel tank. The lowered ride gives the truck a more aggressive stance, hinting at the performance upgrades beneath the surface.

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Modern LS3 V8 Power and Four-Speed Manual: Engine and Performance: The heart of this custom C1500 is a Chevrolet Performance 6.2-liter LS3 V8 crate engine, a modern and powerful powerplant. Enhancements include a Brian Tooley Racing camshaft and a Holley Sniper fabricated intake manifold, suggesting a focus on increased performance. The coil packs have been relocated for a cleaner engine bay appearance, and an aluminum radiator with dual electric fans ensures optimal cooling. Stainless steel headers feed into a dual exhaust system equipped with an X-pipe, culminating in side outlets positioned ahead of each rear wheel, promising an exhilarating soundtrack. A BP Automotive ECU and engine harness manage the modern engine systems. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a Muncie four-speed manual transmission, offering the driver complete control over the truck’s performance. An American Powertrain hydraulic clutch throwout bearing was installed for smooth and reliable clutch operation.

Upgraded Chassis for Enhanced Driving Dynamics: The chassis of this C1500 has been significantly modified to improve its handling and braking capabilities. The ride has been lowered using McGaughy’s front drop spindles, drop springs, and a flipped rear axle, complemented by pinion-angle shims to optimize driveline geometry. A quick-ratio power steering box provides more responsive steering input, while a Wilwood brake master cylinder works in conjunction with four-wheel disc brakes, offering significantly improved stopping power compared to the original drum brakes. The truck rides on 15″ American Racing Torq Thrust wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires, providing a classic muscle car aesthetic and good grip.

Modernized Interior with Classic Feel: The cabin of this C1500 features a bench seat reupholstered in blue vinyl, providing a comfortable seating area. Black carpeting and white door panels offer a clean and classic backdrop. A Vintage Air climate control system has been seamlessly integrated, providing modern heating and cooling comfort. A Hurst Indy shifter offers precise gear changes, while a C6 Corvette-style drive-by-wire throttle pedal provides a modern and responsive feel. A radio block-off plate maintains a clean dashboard appearance. The aftermarket three-spoke steering wheel frames a set of Classic Instruments gauges, including a 140-mph speedometer, a tachometer, a clock, and readouts for essential engine vitals. The five-digit odometer shows a low mileage count since the completion of the build in 2023.

A Unique Blend of Classic Truck and Modern Muscle: This 1969 GMC C1500 Fenderside pickup represents a well-executed custom build that successfully merges classic truck styling with the modern power and reliability of an LS3 V8 engine and a four-speed manual transmission. The upgraded chassis and modern interior amenities further enhance its appeal, creating a truck that is both visually striking and a pleasure to drive.

Summary:

  • 1969 GMC C1500 Standard Fenderside pickup
  • Custom build completed in 2023
  • 6.2-liter LS3 V8 crate engine with Brian Tooley Racing camshaft and Holley Sniper intake
  • Muncie four-speed manual transmission
  • Upgraded chassis with drop spindles, lowering springs, flipped rear axle, and four-wheel disc brakes
  • Quick-ratio power steering
  • Reupholstered blue vinyl bench seat and Vintage Air climate control
  • Classic Instruments gauges and Hurst shifter
  • Dual exhaust with X-pipe and side outlets

Disclaimer: Vehicle is a custom build with modifications. Mileage shown reflects distance driven since the build completion and is not the total mileage of the chassis. The functionality of all aftermarket components should be verified.

Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini

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