Newbie - GMC 4X4 dream truck?
 

Hello All,

I recently discovered your forum, and have been busy reading lots of good info. In the next year or so, I think I will be in a position where I can buy myself a "dream truck", so to speak. I really like the looks of the 67-72 shortbed 1/2 ton GMC 4X4's. If I get one, I want it to have all the original options / features / bells & whistles possible. What was the "fanciest" model GMC from this era? What options should one look for? I would most likely gravitate toward a 1972, since it is the newest. Also, what's an approximate price range one might expect to see for matching #'s, no rust, restored (or well maintained original)?

I know that's a lot of questions! Any guidance for the newbie would be greatly appreciated. :hm:

Thanks...Stacy

Welcome, I like your thinking. Sierre Grande was top of the line, but that's only a trim package. It did not include A/C, tilt, tach, buckets, am/fm, automatic, etc...basically any of the options you associate with top of the line today. Those were additional options on the RPO. Your best bet is to find a good solid original and make a clone.

FYI, no BB 4x4's were made 350 was biggest engine available. I recommend the 292 six and a big ole plow blade myself. That's a true truck! :cool:

Welcome to the board from West Michigan!

Jim

Welcome to the forum!

A lot depends on the seller...but, GMC's are not as popular as Chevrolets in the 67-72 years, so you can use this to your advantage. I know for a fact that GMC's go cheaper on ebay, thats where I got mine. Good luck!

Welcome To The Board!!!

Welcome from south Mississippi.

Hi Owilly:
Welcome from another Michigander. I just joined in January and I really enjoy the forums. People are very friendly and quick to offer help and advice.

Welcome from Tulsa, Oklahoma
 

I recently purchased a 1972 swb 4x4 c-10 chevy it came with a 350 with the three on the tree transmission that in my opinion totally sucks. I plan on going with a turbo 350 with the np-205 t-case. Sorry to ramble. I just wanted to say you are asking for one tall order. If you do find a truck with all the bells and whistles and low milage to boot I can almost assure you they will want an arm and a leg for it. Like the previous post said. Try to find a solid 4x4 and then make yourself a clone. aka board members(I promise you guys I will get you all some pictures as soon as I can. I really want to show off my ride, I think you guys will be impressed.) Good luck looking for your jimmy! These trucks are more fun that I had ever imagined!

Chuck, Tulsa Oklahoma

For something unique, buy one with or put a 305/351 V-6 in it.

Bob

I was thinking the exact same thing when i started reading this post. An original 4X4 305/v6 would be super cool. I'm not even sure it was a factory combo in our trucks. Any one know for sure?

Yes, but only the 305. Not many around though!

Bob

Welcome from SW Washington State....

I have a 72 Sierra Grande 2WD, it came with the Tach Dash, and the Bucket Seats and console..

Another welcome from South Mississippi. Good luck on finding a GMC! Gotta love those GMC's! :D

:welcoem: to our world, your location might help put you in touch with some fellow members who can help you look for that 4wd dream of yours.

Welcome to the truck forums!

Thanks for all the info, guys. That helps me out a lot. Looks like a person might be better off trying to find a truck in good shape, with the trim package you like, and with as many options as is reasonable. If you can't find the "perfect" package, options can be purchased separately and installed.

I 'm located in south-central Missouri (near Rolla). If there are any locals on the forum, drop me a line and maybe we can B.S. some. I'm not mechanically inclined, but like old cars and trucks. My first vehicle was a 1950 GMC. I currently work in the information technology field.

I think I might have recently passed up a good starter truck. IIRC, if was a 1971 4X4 GMC longbed, one owner, vg condition with no rust (so the ad said). Under 100,000 miles. They wanted around $5,000 for it. It was a two hour drive one way from where I live, so I didn't go see it. Now I wish I would have. I thought it was too much money, but now, after some research, maybe that wasn't a bad deal. Oh well, you live and learn.

Thanks again...Stacy

owilly: $5k for the truck you mentioned sounds about right, especially if it's number matching and very little rust. I just purchased 72 3/4 ton 4x4 with manual tranny, tach, tilt, AC. Body was from 2 wheel drive and frame running gear from 4x4 truck (put em together...so I'm driving what they call a mutt). Paid $3,500 for it (haven't even picked it up yet...:)

Be patient and keep your ear to the ground. I found mine by putting the word out around town (Maryville, MO) and found three locally.

This board is GREAT. People are very friendly and helpful. I've learned a lot in the two weeks I've been nosing around. There is a 1/2 ton 4x4 in North Dakota I was looking at. It needs rockers and cab corners, but body is pretty straight aside from that. PM me and I'll see if I can get you more info.

take care, and welcome