Big 10/ heavy half

[dtkarst]

I got to looking at my 76 closer and didn’t pay much mind to the paid when it said f44 heavy suspension and such until I saw a square body drove by with a big 10 decal on the bed. I forgot all about those and can’t seem to have much that’s Concrete as to when the first year was. So my questions are, what year did they start the heavy half or big ten deal? Wht makes it one? And did they all come with decals on the bed sides on the upper rear? My bed was replaced somewhere along the road so not sure on the original. From the little I’ve looked up, it says f44 and has the 6200 gawr on the door jamb sticker. Just trying to learn more about it. Thanks

[DoubleDubya]

If I remember correctly, in the mid 70's emission regulations were being rolled out and for trucks the requirements were based on GVWR. Heavier trucks (3/4 ton and up) were exempt. At some point a half ton truck with a heavier than standard spring package pushed them just over the threshold so they could also do without some of the emissions stuff. For a short number of years this was the reason for the Big 10 and Heavy Halfs. Eventually the emissions requirements applied to all trucks so no more reason for these special trucks.

[bhc41051]

I believe 1976 was the first year for the Big-10's.

[rodstored-72]

I miss very much my original purchased (by my dad) 1979 chevy "big 10" that I drove in H.S. and later. If I remember & know correctly all the "big 10" trucks had a VIN that was 44 and the regular were 14? I am not sure about the GMC "heavy half" models though...

[Dead Parrot]

My 75 didn't come with a heavy half decal but does have the heavy duty chassis and 6200 GVWR. No emissions other then PCV and Thermac.

I like that in 76 leaded was 'Regular' and unleaded was the 'weird stuff'

My gas gauge also just says fuel instead of unleaded fuel and the fill holes are for the larger "Regular" nozzles.

Years after the truck was purchased, cracks appeared in the bondo on the bed about where the decal would have been if it ever had one. My dad was the 2nd owner for my truck and I doubt the dealer disclosed the previous damage. If it ever had decals they were likely lost to the new paint job.

[77 ChevySport]

[Hugh in NC]

My 1978 Big 10 had been repainted and did not have the emblems on the bed sides. I found these reproductions on line and added. Door tag shows 6050 GAWR for a short bed Big 10. It does have the vin that starts with 44. I think F44, G50, F60, and J55 were all parts to the Big 10 package. I do not see any other Big 10's in my area of North Carolina. After reading all of the Big 10 ad posted above by bhc41051, it lists all the heavy duty stuff along with larger capacity tires.