![]() |
Register or Log In To remove these advertisements. |
|
|
![]() |
|
Thread Tools | Display Modes |
|
![]() |
#1 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2024
Location: Pleasanton CA
Posts: 203
|
Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Hello everyone,
I’ve been lurking on this forum for some years now but finally registered as I just purchased a 1969 C10 short bed 6cyl with a three on the tree manual trans (it is a converted longbed). I’ve wanted a 67-72 C10 for years but it was never the right time. It’s probably still not the best time but I went ahead with it ![]() The truck was shipped from Washington to my home in Pleasanton, CA this week. I’ve wanted a short bed c10 for some time now and finally pulled the trigger. I’ve included some pics below. I have had project cars in the past (late model Mustangs and Corvettes) but this is my first carburetor equipped toy and my first experience with vintage Chevrolet. A few things I’m hoping you all can start me off with: a.) I bought the car from an 80yr old man who had it since the 1980s. The truck is obviously an i6 but he couldn’t remember whether it was a 250 or 292cu in engine. Can anyone tell me how I can ID which engine it is? When I do a search on RockAuto, it’s actually showing (4) different 6cyl options in 1969. I always thought there was (2)? b.) The truck has been sitting for years. The owner would occasionally start it but it’s been a long time since it’s been registered for road use. It’s running very rough and struggles to hold an idle (it has some smoking and you have to goose the throttle to keep it alive). I suspect some carb related issues. I’ll start with a basic tune-up including spark plugs, wires, distributor cap, fuel filter, and air filter. Any other items I should consider while I’m doing this? Also, plan is to mostly use RockAuto ACDelco parts. If you recommend any others, please let me know. c.) What oil do you recommend for the first oil change? Let’s assume it’s a high mileage i6. 10W-40 conventional sound right? d.) What rearend came in these trucks? I’ll take a picture and post here. e.) If it turns out that I need a hand, does anyone know any C10/classic Chevy shops in the Tri-Valley (Bay Area) that know their way around a carburetor? I’ll be checking back in frequently and plan to utilize this thread for updates as I go. The first priority is to get it running well enough where I can drive around town with my 5yr old son. We live in Pleasanton, CA which hosts multiple annual GoodGuys and downtown classic car shows which we hope to be a part of in the coming years. Thank you and look forward to being part of the community here. Luke87GT Last edited by Luke87gt; 03-02-2024 at 06:14 PM. |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#2 |
Who Changed This?
![]() Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: Simi Valley, CA
Posts: 10,435
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Welcome aboard! I'd also have the gas tank flushed, and replace all the neoprene fuel lines. The carburetor probably has a bunch of dried fuel in it, and should be rebuilt, imo.
For all kinds of service and repair info, specs, etc., go here and download the manuals- https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...ghlight=hatzie You would be well advised to look at the points inside the distributor, as well.
__________________
~Steven '70 Chevy 3/4T Longhorn CST 402/400/3.56 Custom Camper Simi Valley, CA |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#3 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Dec 2017
Location: Central MO
Posts: 894
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
If spid (decal in glove box) is visible and still intact, post a photo. That will give quite a bit of info, including engine, rear axle ratio (if optional), along with other options it had. Does not appear to be a higher option truck, but nothing wrong with that.
P.S. Sure wish they looked that good in Misouri. The salt and chemicals kill them here if winter driven. I had a 67 I purchased when it was about 10 years old, and the rockers were already gone, and had been filled with bondo by then. You can imagine what 50 years do to them. |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#4 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2024
Location: Pleasanton CA
Posts: 203
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Thank you, here is the tag. Still struggling to find how to ID the engine other than it’s a straight 6cyl
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#5 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Jan 2015
Location: central oregon
Posts: 239
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
A) engine looks like a 250 to me. You can tell from th passenger side of the block with pics to.
B) do a complete tune up and flush the fuel tank. Plugs cap rotor points condenser at minimum. I bought a hei distributor off ebay cheaper than i could buy cap rotor points and condenser. It is a major upgrade to points style distributor C) nothing special for oil straight 30w would be just fine D) yours is a truck 12 bolt |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#6 |
Registered User
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Northern Calif.
Posts: 3,697
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Good looking truck. When you get a chance, post more pics! You know how we are!
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#7 | |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2024
Location: Pleasanton CA
Posts: 203
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Quote:
I’m assuming it’s an open rear? I’ll jack up the rear and rotate one of the wheels to be sure but I expect it’s an open. Pardon my ignorance but what is a “points” and “condenser”? Mind pointing me to that in RockAuto? Wonder if those have another name I’m more used to… Thanks |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#8 |
Post Whore
![]() Join Date: Feb 2016
Location: Portland Oregon
Posts: 11,156
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Welcome aboard and here is some ID information.
Basically 250 has fuel pump in front of motor mount and on a 292 it's aft of the motor mount. https://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vbo...d.php?t=516277
__________________
Thanks to Bob and Jeanie and everyone else at Superior Performance for all their great help. ![]() RIP Bob Parks. 1967 Burban (the WMB),1988 S10 Blazer (the Stink10 II),1969 GTO (the Goat), 1970 Javelin, 1952 F2 Ford OHC six 4X4, 29 Model A, 72 Firebird (the DBP Bird). 85 Alfa Romeo If it breaks I didn't want it in the first place The WMB repair thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=698377 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#9 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Jan 2015
Location: central oregon
Posts: 239
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Points and condensor is internal of the distributor cap. Old school and higher maintenance than a electronic ignition
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#10 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2024
Location: Pleasanton CA
Posts: 203
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
That’s helpful, thank you for the education. Is this an install and forget it or do those pictured parts have any level of adjustability that you have to get right? Thanks
Last edited by Luke87gt; 03-02-2024 at 09:23 PM. |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#11 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Jan 2015
Location: central oregon
Posts: 239
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
You will need a dwell meter to set the points correctly. And from time to time you will have to keep up on them. Thats why id recommend a HEI (i got mine off ebay for like 55 bucks) or a petronix conversion kit. That kit will be electronic and fit in factory distributor.
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#12 |
Who Changed This?
![]() Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: Simi Valley, CA
Posts: 10,435
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
The points need a gap adjustment. Based on OnShotKyle's post, I'll agree that an HEI may be cheaper. Points and condenser prices were stupid high (to me) last time I did my truck. It has an HEI now, which eliminates points and condenser, and maintains tune for a lot longer, to boot. Maybe check into an electronic kit that just replaces the points. They are on par with those parts, and will last a lot longer than points. You don't have to mess with the ignition harness, either.
__________________
~Steven '70 Chevy 3/4T Longhorn CST 402/400/3.56 Custom Camper Simi Valley, CA |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#13 | |
Active Member
![]() Join Date: Jun 2023
Location: Cottonwood Ca
Posts: 116
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Quote:
RonT |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#14 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Hanover NJ
Posts: 4,167
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
nice find .....congratulations lots of great knowledge shared here.... good luck enjoy that first ride with your son get us more pictures when you can.....PLEASE
__________________
Doc & Kim build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=722288 I am from the desert http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=650332 basket case build SOLD http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=648557 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#15 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Mar 2019
Location: Herculaneum MO (20 minutes south of St. Louis
Posts: 619
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
For ignition components like cap, rotor, points & condenser I always use Blue Streak parts. If you do decide to upgrade to HEI remember you get what you pay for. An $89 ebay distributor is no bargain. Get an original GM distributor & rebuild it if necessary. Tom Lowe at 12bolt.com has used distributors for your 6, as well as other new & used parts.
Welcome to the board.
__________________
67 C10 283 T5 swapped longbed fleetside = wife's daily driver 67 C20 292 (originally a 250)4speed longbed fleetside w/original wooden bed=my project truck 67 C10 283+.060 (so a 292 as well)T5 swapped longbed fleetside=my DD 72 C1500 Sierra Grande 350 TH350 longbed fleetside=wife's fair weather truck Can you tell we are fans of longbed fleetsides & 67s Chris |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#16 | |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Jul 2000
Location: North Texas
Posts: 3,499
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Quote:
![]() Heck, back in the 60s thru the mid-70s, all we had was points, and I don't remember ever being left on the side of the road due to a failure. Wish I could say that about HEIs! We did have to check the points gap every several thousand miles, and sometimes carried spare parts. When you do change the points, be sure to change the condenser to keep the new set of points from pitting. Also a new cap and rotor wouldn't hurt, depending on what they look like. Man, that truck would be a fun one to work on! I hope the problem is not something internal like a valve or ring.
__________________
Mike 1969 C10 LWB -- owned for 35 years. 350/TH350, 3.08 posi, 1st Gen Vintage Air, AAW wiring harness, 5-lug conversion, 1985 spindles and brakes. 1982 C10 SWB -- sold 1981 C10 Silverado LWB -- sold, but wish I still had it! 1969 C10 (not the current one) that I bought in the early 1980s. Paid $1200; sold for $1500 a few years later. Just a hint at the appreciation that was coming. Retired as a factory automation products salesman. Worked part-time over the years for an engine builder and a classic car repair shop. Member here for 24 years! This is the very first car/truck Internet forum I joined. I still used a dial-up modem back then! Last edited by MikeB; 03-11-2024 at 11:43 AM. |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#17 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Jun 2022
Location: San Ramon,CA
Posts: 505
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Welcome, neighbor
Monument Auto carries Blue Streak ignition parts, and Hygrade carb rebuild kits.
__________________
1970 C10 Custom longbed 350/350 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#18 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Apr 2016
Location: Cypress, TX
Posts: 3,727
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
That is a beautiful truck you have there. I have a 69 of the same color, although mine is rusty. Great purchase. Congratulations. It appears the 80 yr old man took good care of it. You graduated from lurking to posting, that's great. Post lots of questions and lots of pictures. An amazing amount of knowledge and opinions are right here waiting for you to ask. These wonderful folks have helped me with a ton of stuff on my truck. This forum has the most helpful and friendliest vibe on the Internet, I think you will be amazed. I will share a these things that I didn't know when I got started with my truck, and I wish I had known from the start:
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#19 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Ruskin Florida
Posts: 4,561
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Welcome to the best site ever! I grew up in P-Town out on Tassajara before the houses went nuts out there. 6363 to be exact. There is a school there now. We had a bunch of these on the farm. In fact my Blazer was stored there in the 80's. Nice start. I always lik the feel of the all original 6 and three speed. Fun and reliable. I miss that area sometimes. Where are you at?
__________________
70 swb 4x4 406sbc 700r4 203/205 d60/14blt locker yadda yadda http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...88#post6935688 Yeller 72 Blazer 2wd conversion project "No Daggum Money" http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=550804 LS1-T56 3.73 LSD super budget build Blanco-2014 Sierra SWB https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=810350 |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#20 |
All stock and staying that way
![]() Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Elkland, PA
Posts: 1,478
|
![]()
I'm going to dissent here. After having sudden death with a "high quality" aftermarket electronic distributor, I have switched back to points on my 1972 Cheyenne.
On Ebay, there are scores of NOS Delco points, condensers, caps and rotors to make your original distributor work as well as it did new. DO NOT use the currently available offshore electrical parts. They will leave you stranded, or offer overall poor performance. Spark Plugs: ![]() Points: ![]() Rotor: ![]() Condenser bracket: ![]() Condenser: ![]() Cap: ![]() Vacuum Advance: ![]() Complete wireset: ![]()
__________________
1970 K/5 Blazer CST 4WD, Bronze, 93k ACT. miles, 350, 4 speed, positraction, 16.5" x 8.25" wheel option, tilt, tach, vacuum, AM/FM, manual throttle...Dad ordered and purchased new 4/70. Currently frame off restoration in progress... ![]() 1972 Cheyenne Super 20 2WD, DK Blue/White, 90K ACT. miles, 402, TH400, 4.10 open, tilt, tach, vacuum, A/C, AM/FM, manual throttle.. A mostly original paint never rusted Texas survivor... ![]() 2017 Sierra 1500 SLT 4WD, Black, 41k miles, 5.3, 6L80E, 3.42 LS, 20" polished wheels, everything but moonroof and 6.2... 2019 Canyon SLT 4WD, White, 60k miles, 3.6, 8L45, 3.23 LS, 18" wheels |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#21 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2021
Location: Kernersville, NC
Posts: 88
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
If you want to keep your distributor, but still upgrade, it's hard to go wrong with the Petronix kit. Successful installs on 3 vehicles over the years.
https://www.amazon.com/PerTronix-118...=ATVPDKIKX0DER |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#22 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: west coast
Posts: 3,373
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
From my experience, the 250 is a solid reliable engine. The biggest issue is usually a poorly performing carburetor, as Steeveedee mentioned ( dirt and gunk blocking orifice's and or accelerator pump in carb worn). Usually, a professional rebuilt carb does the trick, assuming your getting a fresh constant fuel supply from the tank. The other issue is the extra long intake-exhaust manifold which tends to warp over time, causing a vacuum leak where it attaches to cylinder head. Sometimes you get lucky and there just loose bolts and or intake-exhaust manifold gasket needs to be replaced. IMO, this issue is the main reason GM went to a head with integral intake-exhaust around 1975. The fully synchro 3 speed in '69 is a big improvement from the non synchro unit found in '67-68 6 cylinder pickups, it is actually fun to drive, gears are nicely placed. 3.73 ratio in rear are comfortable up to 60 mph, over that, your mpg start to drop significantly.
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#23 |
Registered User
Join Date: Jul 2021
Location: Keller, Texas
Posts: 462
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Welcome and congrats on finding a nice-looking truck. It appears by the pics it is pretty straight. Looking forward to seeing what you do to it. As others have said - Please post as many pictures as you can so we all get to enjoy what you do to it.
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#24 | |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2024
Location: Pleasanton CA
Posts: 203
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Quote:
We are about 1 mile from downtown in the Del Prado neighborhood near Hansen Park. |
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
#25 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2024
Location: Pleasanton CA
Posts: 203
|
Re: Purchased a 1969 C10 Short Bed - Pleasanton, CA
Thank you to everyone for all the help.
I have my tune up parts all selected but struggling to find a P/N for the Blue Streak Points for a ‘69 250. Is anyone able to help with that? Thank you again. |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
Bookmarks |
|
|