Shift Into the Past: This 1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe Manual

1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe

Finding a clean first-generation compact truck is increasingly difficult as these vehicles disappear from the roads. This 1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe regular cab 4×4 represents the quintessential small American pickup of its era. Having spent nearly two decades with its current owner, the truck shows an honest 115,000 miles on the digital odometer. It successfully maintains the rugged aesthetic that defined General Motors’ utility lineup during the late eighties.

1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe

Exterior Refurbishment in Vibrant Apple Red

The body of this 1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe has been refinished in a bright Apple Red paint. This bold color choice is complemented by classic chrome bumpers and bright wheel arch trim pieces. A spray-in bedliner has been added to the cargo area to protect the steel from future wear and moisture. Additionally, a sliding rear window provides the cabin with extra ventilation during long weekend drives.

1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe

Classic Alloy Wheels and All Terrain Rubber

This pickup sits on fifteen-inch five-spoke alloy wheels that provide a period-correct sporting look. These wheels were recently fitted with a fresh set of Venom Power Terra Hunter X/T tires for improved off-road grip. Power steering helps navigate tight trails while power-assisted front disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in modern traffic. Underneath the body, an undercoating has been applied to help preserve the chassis for the next steward.

1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe

Garnet Red Interior with Digital Instrumentation

The cabin of this 1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe offers a deep dive into the color-keyed design trends of the decade. Garnet Red cloth covers the bench seat, matching the dashboard, door panels, and even the carpeting. A stand-out feature is the factory digital gauge cluster, which remains functional and displays speed and engine data. While the dash shows some cracking, the interior remains a remarkably cohesive space for any square-body enthusiast.

1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe

Modernized Climate Control and Audio Updates

Several updates have been made to ensure the truck is comfortable for use in warmer climates like Florida. The air conditioning system was converted to use R134a refrigerant to simplify future maintenance and improve cooling performance. Entertainment is handled by a Kenwood CD stereo that replaces the original factory unit for better audio quality. These subtle changes allow the truck to serve as a practical cruiser while retaining its vintage character.

1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe

Engine Specifications and Drivetrain Performance

Under the hood, the 2.8-liter LL2 V6 engine was factory rated at 125 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. This reliable power plant is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, offering the driver total engagement through every gear. The dual-range transfer case allows for easy switching between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive high or low ranges. It remains a capable drivetrain for those who value mechanical simplicity and off-road versatility.

1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe

Summary of the Compact Tahoe Pickup

This regular cab S-10 serves as a reminder of the durable simplicity found in eighties automotive engineering. Its combination of a refreshed exterior and a well-maintained drivetrain makes it a unique find in today’s market. Despite minor cosmetic aging on the trim, the truck presents as a solid and functional piece of history. It is a fantastic candidate for someone looking to revisit the era of the classic Chevrolet square-body pickup.

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Source: bringatrailer.com

1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe
1989 Chevrolet S-10 Tahoe