What engine came in a 1986 Chevy C10?
The 1986 Chevy C10 offered several engine options, including a 4.3-liter V6, a 5.0-liter V8, a 5.7-liter V8, and a 6.2-liter diesel V8 on select models.
The exact engine depended on trim level, configuration, and market. This article outlines the commonly available powerplants for the 1986 C10 and how they were typically used by buyers at the time.
Engine options for the 1986 C10
Below are the engines most often found in 1986 C10 pickups, with brief notes on their roles and typical applications.
- 4.3-liter V6 (262 cubic inches) — a 90-degree V6 commonly used as the base or economical option, offering adequate torque for everyday driving and light-duty work.
- 5.0-liter V8 (305 cubic inches) — a widely installed small-block V8, balancing power with reasonable everyday usability for many buyers.
- 5.7-liter V8 (350 cubic inches) — a larger V8 option favored for heavier loads, towing, and stronger performance when paired with appropriate transmissions.
- 6.2-liter Diesel V8 (approximately 379 cubic inches) — GM’s diesel option available on select C/K configurations, valued for fuel economy and durability in work settings.
Availability of these engines varied by trim and market, so individual trucks could differ in their powerplant even within the same model year.
How to verify the exact engine in a specific truck
To confirm which engine a particular 1986 C10 used, check the engine stamping and VIN/engine-code labels on the firewall or radiator support, and consult the vehicle’s original build sheet or window sticker. This helps ensure you’re matching the correct powertrain to a given truck, especially for restoration or resale purposes.
Summary: For the 1986 Chevy C10, the common engine lineup consisted of a 4.3L V6, a 5.0L V8, a 5.7L V8, and a 6.2L diesel V8, with exact availability depending on trim and configuration.
In context, buyers in 1986 could choose from gasoline V8s of different sizes for balance of efficiency and power, or opt for a diesel for fuel economy on work-focused models.
Summary: The 1986 C10 offered multiple power options to suit daily driving, towing, and economical operation, reflecting GM’s strategy of providing versatile choices within the same pickup line.
Conclusion: If you’re researching a specific 1986 C10, identify its engine by checking the stamping and documentation, as the exact option could vary even within the same year.
Summary: The 1986 Chevy C10's engine choices—4.3L V6, 5.0L V8, 5.7L V8, and 6.2L diesel—reflect a broad lineup designed to cover economy, everyday use, and heavier-duty tasks.
Summary: The key takeaway is that the 1986 C10 did not rely on a single engine; it offered multiple powertrains to fit different buyer needs and configurations.
How much is a 1986 Chevy C10 worth today?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $11,300 for a 1986 Chevrolet C10 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec.
What engine was in a 1986 Chevy C10?
Powertrain
| Chevrolet/GMC C/K powertrain details (1973–1991) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Engine family | Production |
| 305 cu in (5.0 L) V8 | Chevrolet small-block V8 | 1981–1986 |
| 1987 | ||
| 307 cu in (5.0 L) V8 | Chevrolet small-block V8 | 1973 |
What year is the best Chevy 350 engine?
The best Chevy 350 engine is often considered to be the 1996-2000 Vortec 5.7L due to its significant improvements in performance and efficiency. This version features Vortec cylinder heads for better airflow and the more durable hydraulic roller camshaft. While earlier models were simpler, later ones like the Vortec offered a stronger block design (880 casting), which is ideal for high-performance builds.
This video explains the advantages of the Vortec 5.7L engine: 58sMyvintageiron7512YouTube · Mar 17, 2023
1996-2000 Vortec 5.7L
- Vortec cylinder heads: Significantly improved airflow and combustion efficiency, leading to better performance and fuel economy.
- Hydraulic roller camshaft: This provides greater durability and reduced wear on the valvetrain compared to older flat-tappet cams.
- Stronger block: Blocks with the "880" casting number were used during this time and are built for roller cams, making them a great foundation for building a high-performance engine.
Other notable years
- Early 1990s (with roller cam): These engines are also desirable because they came with a roller valvetrain, but some may lack a provision for a mechanical fuel pump.
- 1970 LT-1: For those seeking raw, early-era power, the 1970 LT-1 version is a legendary, high-performance option with solid lifters and high compression.
- 1986 and newer (one-piece rear main seal): Engines from 1986 and newer are equipped with a one-piece rear main seal, which is different from the two-piece seal found on older engines. This distinction is important when selecting a compatible flywheel or flexplate.
What engine does a C10 have?
A C10 can have many different engines depending on its year, including inline-6 and various V8s, from the base 250 cubic inch inline-6 to larger options like the 350 or 454 cubic inch V8s. Modern C10s can also be found with various swapped engines like the Vortec 4.3L V6 or even modern GM LS engines. To determine the specific engine, check the truck's VIN or look for emblems on the vehicle's exterior, such as a "350" or "454" on the grille.
Common factory engines
- Inline-6: Early C10s often came with a reliable inline-6 as the base engine, such as the 250 cubic inch (4.1L) or 292 cubic inch (4.8L).
- Small-block V8: The 350 cubic inch (5.7L) V8 was a very popular option that provided a good balance of performance and reliability.
- Big-block V8: Some C10s, particularly in later model years, offered the powerful 454 cubic inch (7.4L) V8 as an option.
Other common engines
- Vortec 4.3L V6: A reliable and common engine found in later model C10s.
- LS swaps: Many C10 enthusiasts swap a more modern GM LS engine into the truck for increased power and performance.
- Cummins engines: It is also possible to find C10s with a swapped-in 5.9L Cummins diesel engine.
How to identify the engine in a specific C10
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): The first few letters of the VIN can indicate whether the truck came with a six-cylinder or a V8 engine from the factory.
- Exterior Emblems: Look for emblems on the grille or elsewhere on the truck that might specify the engine, such as "350" or "454".
- Engine Casting Numbers: For a definitive answer, you can look up the engine's casting numbers.
