The 1972 Chevrolet C60 Tanker Truck represents a fascinating intersection of municipal service history and classic petroleum branding. Originally purchased by the Troy Township Fire Department in Ohio, this heavy-duty workhorse spent years as a dedicated tanker. Following a 2019 refurbishment, the truck moved into its second act, trading fire station duties for a striking red-and-white Texaco livery. It features a fiberglass tank and extensive diamond-plate surfaces, making it an ideal candidate for promotional use or a unique collection centerpiece. While its days of fighting fires are over, the mechanical heart of this C60 remains robust and ready for low-speed cruising. Offered at no reserve, this truck provides a rare opportunity to own a massive piece of American industrial design. It stands as a testament to the longevity and versatility of Chevrolet’s medium-duty platform from the early seventies.
Municipal Origins and Promotional Transformation
The history of this 1972 Chevrolet C60 Tanker Truck is deeply rooted in Lexington, Ohio, where it served its local community. Its transition from a fire department asset to a Texaco-themed display vehicle involved a full cosmetic overhaul. The cab is now finished in bright red with a white roof, providing a sharp contrast that draws immediate attention. Texaco logos are applied to the doors and the rear of the fiberglass tank, reinforcing the nostalgic commercial aesthetic. A black diamond-plate rear storage platform and integrated side steps add functional utility and a rugged look to the exterior. Rear-mounted spotlights and cab clearance lights ensure the truck maintains its authentic service vehicle profile. These details work together to create a cohesive and professional appearance that honors its working-class heritage.
Heavy Duty Chassis and Dually Configuration
Underneath the classic bodywork, the 1972 Chevrolet C60 Tanker Truck sits on a chassis designed for significant payload capacity. It utilizes a dually rear axle with a steep 7.20 gear ratio, prioritizing low-end pulling power over highway speed. The truck rides on red-finished 20-inch steel wheels that match the cab’s vibrant paint scheme. While the tires are older and show some cracking, they maintain the towering stance expected of a C60 model. Recent mechanical attention includes a service of the rear brakes in 2025 to ensure the truck can stop its significant mass. Power steering and front recovery points add to the utility of the build, making it easier to maneuver at events. This setup reflects the uncompromising nature of trucks built for heavy municipal and commercial applications during the 1970s.
Refreshed Cabin and Utilitarian Interior
The interior of the 1972 Chevrolet C60 Tanker Truck remains true to its utilitarian roots with several thoughtful updates. During the 2019 refurbishment, the cab was refreshed with red vinyl bench seating and color-coordinated door panels. Simple lap belts were fitted to the seats, providing a necessary safety feature without cluttering the vintage dashboard. Manual wind-up windows and quarter vent windows provide traditional airflow, though the heater and blower motor currently require service. The black instrument surround remains intact, housing a horizontal 100-mph speedometer and essential gauges for monitoring engine health. While the steering wheel shows some age-related cracks, the overall environment is clean and functional for a vehicle of this size. It provides a raw, mechanical connection to the road that modern trucks have largely engineered away.
Mechanical Reliability and Recent Servicing
Keeping a vehicle like the 1972 Chevrolet C60 Tanker Truck roadworthy requires consistent maintenance of its primary systems. The selling dealer recently rebuilt the carburetor in 2025 to improve throttle response and fuel delivery. A new battery was also installed in mid-2025 to ensure the truck starts reliably after sitting for extended periods. While some corrosion is visible on the engine components, the core block remains a dependable piece of Chevy engineering. A minor oil drip from the valve cover gasket is noted, but the truck has otherwise been a steady performer. The New Process five-speed manual transmission allows the driver to navigate through the gears with deliberate precision. This drivetrain is built for durability rather than refinement, perfectly matching the truck’s industrial personality.
Big Block Power and Performance Specs
This 1972 Chevrolet C60 Tanker Truck is powered by a 366ci V8 engine, a member of the legendary big-block family. This engine was specifically developed for medium-duty trucks, focusing on torque and long-term durability under heavy loads. It is backed by a five-speed manual transmission that gives the driver total control over the 366’s power band. The 7.20 rear axle ratio means the truck is exceptionally capable of moving its fiberglass tank even when fully loaded. While total mileage is unknown, the engine continues to provide the steady, rhythmic idle characteristic of Chevy’s commercial V8s. This powertrain configuration ensures the C60 can handle parade duties or show circuits with ease. It remains a reliable and easy-to-service engine for any enthusiast with basic mechanical skills.
Summary of a Refurbished Utility Icon
The 1972 Chevrolet C60 Tanker Truck is a unique survivor that has successfully navigated the jump from active service to a collector vehicle. Its fire department history and subsequent Texaco restoration provide a rich narrative for its next owner. The combination of a 366 V8 and a five-speed manual provides a classic heavy-truck driving experience that is increasingly rare. With its red-and-white finish and diamond-plate accents, it is ready to serve as a standout promotional tool or parade vehicle. The no-reserve format makes it an accessible entry point into the world of medium-duty truck collecting. Recent brake and carburetor work ensure that the major systems have been addressed for its next chapter. This C60 is a bold, nostalgic, and well-maintained piece of American history that requires nothing but a new driver.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
