Need help with a 1986 GMC SWB

[Chance72]

I might be getting a 1986 GMC SWB fleetside that has no rust, nice black paint, clean interior, has a 327 with a 350 turbo transmission. I don't know much about the 73-87 trucks and wanted to know what should I look for? The only thing wrong with the truck is there is no cranks in the windows.. Not to hard to install. But anything specific that these trucks are bad about? Did this year come with a 327 or is that from someone else putting it in? I cant upload pictures because of whatever the forum has done, they put a limit on the sizes and all.

[Keith Seymore]

No 327 in '86. Would have been a 305 or 350 for v8's; you could also get a 4.3L V6.

K

Info packet from the GM Heritage Center archive for '86 Chevy pickups:

http://www.gmheritagecenter.com/docs...olet-Truck.pdf

[Chance72]

Anyone have any advice on what I should look for on this truck?

[Chance72]

Well heading over there tomorrow.

[Zane M]

Look for rust in the cab corners, rockers, rear wheel wells, and just about anywhere else.
Might not be much of an issue in Texas, but these are rust prone trucks.
Also look carefully at the engine wiring and anything to do with the engine swap.
While small block Chev to small block Chev should be a straightforward affair, who knows what the owners mechanical ability/inclinations are.

[izzy_Britton]

another thing to consider is that the 86 didnt come with a 327 as keith has mentioned. they did also come with the computer controlled carb and spark control distributor. I do no know how the emissions testing goes in texas but that wouldnt fly out here in Kalifornia. might be more of a headache than its worth if you gotta change it all over for smog.

As zane mentioned if the PO was not too mechanically inclined or a butcher, going back to stock or emissions ready might be harder on the pocket book than you have planned.

That said, if it is rust free and you would enjoy owning/driving it, go for it! I just bought my latest and it is an 86, with a little work it is a pleasure to drive, i wouldnt hesitate to do it again either.

-Izzy