A 'virtual garage' of antique Chevy & GMC trucks from around the World

1971 Chevy C-20 Fleetside Longbed

Owned by   Jeff Smith Bolter # 16564 Beaufort, North Carolina

19 November 2007
# 2128

From Jeff :

           Howdy Stovebolt! I've recently purchased a 1971 Chevy C-20 Longbed Fleetside. It has a 350 ci engine, TH350 automatic transmission, posi-traction rear axle, power steering and power brakes.

           The reason for this purchase is sort of a long story. I'll try to be as brief as possible.

           A couple of months ago, I bought a 1986 GMC Sierra 1500, short wheel based "rock crawler" truck. This vehicle is highly modified as far as the drivetrain. It's got a built 454 ci engine, NP-205 gear drive T/C, one ton axles front and rear, with lockers in both, just to name a few items.

           At any rate, I cannot get it to pass the North Carolina emissions inspection. I tried to apply for a waiver, or a "custom-built / re-construction" title, but my efforts were fruitless. So the only option or "loophole" that I could find, was to install a truck body that was at least 35 years old or older.

           North Carolina does not require a safety inspection or emissions inspection on vehicles that are 35 years or older.

           Now, my next challenge is to surgically prepare the '86 frame, drive train, and wiring harness for the installation of the '71 cab. I will be shortening the long bed to approximately 71 inches for a proper fit.

           I was told this was totally "DO-a-BLE" using any cab from 1970-1972. Nope, I'm not a mechanic, but I do turn a wrench. Do you all have any previous post(s) or Gallery pages with this info that would help. Has anyone else performed this feat?. I'm open to any and all suggestions or ideas where to find reference material that might help with this!

           Thanks and I'll keep you all posted on the progress.

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