1978 GMC K1500 Sierra Classic Half-Ton Pickup

Description

Completely overhauled for their third generation, the 1973–1987 Chevrolet and GMC C/K trucks earned the nickname "Square Body" for their distinctive lack of curves. At the same time, these trucks are also known as the "Rounded-Line" generation by GM, as their exterior was designed using wind tunnel technology to improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency — their curved windshield and side door glass help to reduce air turbulence and noise in the cab. 

Models were available in either a smooth Fleetside bed or a fendered Stepside version. Trim options were plentiful, ranging from the Custom Deluxe/Sierra to the top-of-the-line Silverado/Sierra Classic. These C/K trucks are popular models among enthusiasts due to their reliability, rugged design, and ease of modification. 

Highlights 

• Finished in blue and white paint over two-tone gray vinyl and cloth interior 

• Powered by a Chevrolet Camaro 350 cu-in V8 with an Edelbrock carburetor rated at 295 horsepower; overhauled about 27,000 miles ago 

• Three-speed automatic transmission on steering column with 4x4 transfer case shifter on the floor 

• Better Built heavy duty bed toolbox and bed liner

• Upgrades include: 

  • Engine swap: 350 cu-in V8 for original 400 cu-in V8 in 2000 

  • Doors with electric windows and locks 

  • Vintage Air A/C and heat 

  • Fresh paint in 2019 (window glass and bed were removed for the job) 

• The chassis number (TKR148Z500318) decodes as: 

  • T – GMC 

  • K – Conventional cab 4WD 

  • R – 400 cu-in 175 hp 4 bbl carb V8 

  • 1 – Half ton  

  • 4 – Cab and pickup box 

  • 8 – 1978 model year 

  • Z – Fremont, California, assembly plant 

  • 500318 – Sequential production number  

Features 

• Two-door, four-wheel-drive Fleetside pickup truck 

• Dual exhaust 

• Dual fuel tanks 

• Vent windows 

• Three-spoke sport steering wheel 

• Cruise control 

• Dash instrumentation: 

  • 100 mph speedometer and odometer  

  • 5,000 rpm tachometer  

  • Volts 

  • Fuel level 

  • Coolant temperature  

  • Oil pressure

• Pioneer AM/FM/CD stereo with Pioneer speakers 

• Center console with cup holders  

• Shoulder and lap belts 

• Passenger grab bar 

• Dome light 

• Ash tray 

• Heavy duty door sill plates 

• Dual mirrors 

• BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A 31x10/50R15LT tires  

• Aftermarket center console with storage 

• Passed California Emissions Test in 2023 

Known Imperfections 

• Spotting on paint up front, just below windshield 

• Paint scraped on driver’s door sill 

• Paint imperfections on roof 

• Paint peeling in two small spots above driver’s rear wheel well 

• Paint imperfections around taillights 

• Carpet is stained on driver’s side 

• Small crack in windshield 

• Rear bumper bent slightly 

• Glove box is scraped 

Included 

• Spare tire 

• Bumper jack 

• Haynes 1967-1987 Chevrolet and GMC Pickups Repair Manual 

• 1980 Truck Wiring Diagrams book 

• GM Full-Size Trucks 1970-79 Repair Manual 

• Car charger/electrical outlet 

• The Club steering wheel lock 

• Maintenance and repair receipts 

• Windshield sunshade 

• Chrome air filter 

Ownership History 

The consignor of 1978 GMC K1500 Sierra Classic Pickup has owned the truck since 1994. 

Additional Notes  

Please note that this 1978 GMC K1500 Pickup is titled as a 1977 model.