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What was the square body Chevy called?

The square body Chevy, also known as the Chevrolet C/K series, was a line of full-size pickup trucks produced by General Motors from 1973 to 1987. These rugged and iconic vehicles, with their distinctive boxy design, have become a beloved part of automotive history.


The Origins of the Square Body Chevy


The square body Chevy was introduced in 1973 as a replacement for the previous generation of Chevrolet pickups. The new design featured a more angular, squared-off appearance that was a departure from the rounded shapes of earlier models. This bold and muscular look quickly captured the hearts of truck enthusiasts, and the square body Chevy became a symbol of American automotive engineering and craftsmanship.


Key Features of the Square Body Chevy


The square body Chevy was available in a variety of configurations, including two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive models, as well as single-cab and extended-cab versions. These trucks were known for their rugged construction, powerful engines, and impressive towing and hauling capabilities. Some of the most notable features of the square body Chevy include:



  • Boxy, angular design: The square body Chevy's distinctive boxy shape, with its sharp lines and angular features, set it apart from other pickup trucks of the era.

  • Powerful engine options: Buyers could choose from a range of powerful V8 engines, including the 350 cubic inch (5.7-liter) and 454 cubic inch (7.4-liter) options, providing ample power for towing and hauling.

  • Durable construction: The square body Chevy was built to last, with a robust frame and body that could withstand the rigors of heavy-duty use.

  • Customization potential: The square body Chevy's popularity has led to a thriving aftermarket, allowing owners to customize their trucks with a wide range of accessories and modifications.


The square body Chevy's combination of rugged design, powerful performance, and customization potential has made it a beloved classic among truck enthusiasts and collectors alike.


The Enduring Legacy of the Square Body Chevy


Even decades after the last square body Chevy rolled off the assembly line, these trucks continue to be highly sought after and admired. Their timeless style, robust engineering, and enduring popularity have cemented their place in automotive history. Today, square body Chevys can be found at car shows, on the streets, and in the garages of passionate owners who appreciate the unique character and capabilities of these iconic vehicles.

What does CK stand for in Chevy?


Used for both the model branding and the internal model code, "C" denoted two-wheel drive, while "K" denoted four-wheel drive. Four generations of the C/K series were produced, including the GM monikered second-generation "Action Line" and third-generation "Rounded Line" vehicles (colloquially aka Square-Body trucks).



What's the difference between a Chevy C10 and a Chevy K10?


A C10 was a two-wheel drive pickup, whereas the K10 was four-wheel drive.



What are square body Chevys called?


Produced from 1973 to 1987, Square Body Chevy trucks are the third generation of the Chevrolet and GMC C/K pickups. The Square Body moniker comes from their box-like shape, despite being named the “Rounded-Line” generation by Chevy.



What year did GM change from CK to RV?


R/V-Series (1987–1991)
For the 1987 model year, GM renamed the C/K series as the R/V series.



What is the oldest Chevy model?


Series C Classic Six
Chevrolet would debut their first production model in 1913, at the New York Auto Show. The model they revealed was the Series C Classic Six–designed by Etienne Planche, and based on plans laid out by Louis Chevrolet.



How much is a 1986 Chevy C10 worth?


The value of a 1986 Chevrolet C10 1/2 Ton can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $10,367 for a 1986 Chevrolet C10 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec.



What does the k in K10 stand for?


The Chevy C/K pickup line was composed of two different designations, “C” and “K”. The “C” designates the two-wheel drive trucks in the line, while the “K” designates four-wheel drive.



What does the C in C10 stand for?


Conventional
A: The "C" in C10 stands for "Conventional" in reference to the truck's two-wheel-drive system, while the "10" refers to the half-ton rating of the truck's payload capacity. This nomenclature was used by Chevrolet to distinguish their line of pickup trucks throughout the 1960s to the 1980s.



What year did Chevy go to Square Body?


1973-1987
Recently, there has been a lot of interest in 1973-1987 Chevrolet light trucks, also known as “square bodies.” These trucks are readily available at low prices, making them popular.



What is the difference between a C10 and a C20?


In the early years of the C10 and C20's production, they were very similar. The C20 was larger and had a larger towing capacity, and had 8 stud wheels instead of 6 studs. These differences would persist through the life span of both trucks.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.