The 1968 Chevrolet C10 Custom Stepside represents a golden era of American utility that continues to captivate modern builders. This turquoise example currently serves as a running project, offering a unique blend of vintage character and aftermarket upgrades. It features the classic Stepside bed profile, which provides a narrower, more traditional look compared to the slab-sided Fleetside. Under the hood, a replacement 350ci V8 provides the heartbeat, though the seller notes it requires some fine-tuning to reach its full potential. The truck wears a later 1971-style front end, giving it a slightly more modern face from the Action Line era. While it displays the scars of amateur bodywork, the foundational elements remain intact for a dedicated restorer. This C10 is a canvas for someone looking to build a personalized street machine or a faithful vintage cruiser. It stands as an approachable entry point into the lucrative world of classic Chevy truck ownership.
Turquoise Stepside Body and 1971 Style Front End
The exterior of the 1968 Chevrolet C10 Custom Stepside is finished in a period-appropriate turquoise paint. This color highlights the distinctive curves of the rear fenders, though the finish shows signs of previous amateur bodywork. A notable modification is the 1971-style front end, which includes the updated grille and headlight surround characteristic of later models. The bed is equipped with a functional toolbox, making it practical for light work or carrying spare parts during the restoration. Body-color bumpers and dual side mirrors complete the classic look, though various paint chips and imperfections are present throughout. This truck has the presence of a survivor that has lived a busy life on the road. Consequently, the new owner can enjoy its current patina or plan for a complete strip-down and respray. It captures the rugged, no-nonsense spirit that made the C10 a staple of American roads.
Black Cloth Interior and Aftermarket B&M Shifter
Inside the cabin of the 1968 Chevrolet C10 Custom Stepside, a simple bench seat is upholstered in black cloth. The interior remains a work in progress, with exposed ducting and a missing dashboard cover revealing its project status. For convenience, an aftermarket center console has been added, housing a B&M floor shifter for the automatic transmission. A JVC CD stereo provides modern entertainment, while dual fans are mounted to the dash to assist with airflow. The three-spoke steering wheel offers a sportier feel than the original thin-rimmed factory unit. Even in its current state, the cabin provides a functional space for testing and short-distance driving during the build. It offers a clear starting point for a custom interior project involving new carpeting and dashboard trim. This space allows for total creative freedom in choosing between a racing-inspired or factory-original look.
Engine Performance and Edelbrock Carburetor Tuning
Power for this 1968 Chevrolet C10 Custom Stepside comes from a 350ci V8 that replaced the original factory engine. This small-block Chevy is equipped with an Edelbrock four-barrel carburetor and an aftermarket intake manifold for improved performance. Long-tube exhaust headers help the engine breathe more freely, feeding into a dual exhaust system that exits at the rear. However, the seller notes that the carburetor currently requires adjustment to improve the truck’s cold-start characteristics. An HEI-style distributor has been installed to modernize the ignition system and provide a more reliable spark. The gas tank has been moved from behind the seat to the bed for improved safety and cabin space. While it is a running engine, it represents an opportunity for an enthusiast to perform a comprehensive tune-up. This mechanical package is famously easy to work on, with endless parts availability in the aftermarket.
Front Disc Brakes and 15-Inch Steel Wheels
The chassis of the 1968 Chevrolet C10 Custom Stepside benefits from the inclusion of front disc brakes. This upgrade is a significant improvement over the original four-wheel drum setup, though the seller notes current braking performance is poor. The truck sits on 15-inch steel wheels finished with chrome trim rings, providing a classic “steelie” aesthetic. Mismatched tires are currently fitted, and the left rear unit shows signs of dry rot that will require immediate attention. These rolling components are ideal for a project car where the next owner will likely choose new wheels and rubber. The rear suspension retains the traditional drum brakes, creating a hybrid setup common in early disc conversions. Refurbishing the master cylinder and lines will likely be a top priority for the new steward. This mechanical foundation provides a solid starting point for a reliable and safe driving experience.
Technical Engine Specs and Drivetrain Highlights
The 350ci V8 engine in the 1968 Chevrolet C10 Custom Stepside is a staple of American performance engineering. In this application, it delivers power through a three-speed automatic transmission that simplifies the driving experience. The combination of an Edelbrock carburetor and long-tube headers suggests a focus on streetable torque and a healthy exhaust note. Though the five-digit odometer shows 50,000 miles, the true total mileage of the chassis remains unknown. Recent work under current ownership has been limited, leaving plenty of room for the next owner to leave their mark. The relocated fuel tank in the bed is a common modification that alters the weight distribution slightly while clearing out the interior. This drivetrain is a blank slate, capable of being built into a high-horsepower beast or a reliable daily driver. It is the quintessential Mopar-fighting powerplant of its era.
Final Summary
The 1968 Chevrolet C10 Custom Stepside project is an inviting prospect for those who enjoy the hands-on aspect of the hobby. Its turquoise paint and Stepside body offer a visual charm that is becoming increasingly hard to find in affordable condition. With a 350ci V8 and front disc brakes already in place, many of the heavy lifting upgrades are started. The no-reserve format of this auction ensures that it will go to the highest bidder, making it a fair-market acquisition. Sold on an Alabama registration, it comes with spare parts to help jumpstart the next phase of its life. While it certainly requires mechanical attention and bodywork, the potential for a stunning finished product is clearly visible. This C10 is a piece of Chevy history that is ready for its next chapter of restoration. It represents a rewarding challenge for a weekend mechanic or a professional builder alike.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Details, analyses, and opinions reflect current trends and personal views, not professional or financial advice. Always verify information with official sources before making any decisions.
Source: bringatrailer.com
