1978 GMC K1500 4x4

Description

“GMC’s pickups continue to offer a rugged, no-nonsense approach to utility, with improved ride quality and cabin comfort that make them more livable for daily use.” Motor Trend was quick to praise the GMC K1500, which was a cornerstone of GM’s third-generation C/K truck lineup.

Known for its “Rounded Line” styling and improved engineering, the half-ton, four-wheel-drive K1500 featured a robust ladder-frame chassis and independent front suspension, offering both enhanced ride comfort and off-road capability. And it was available in several trim levels and wheelbases, as well as Fenderside or Wideside beds.

Powertrain options ranged from the 250 cu in inline-six to the beefy 400 cu-in V8, paired with either a three-speed manual, four-speed manual, or Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmission. And refinements in safety and convenience included upgraded seat belt systems, optional air conditioning, and improved interior ergonomics. Overall, the K1500’s enduring mechanical simplicity and rugged design make it a favorite among restorers and collectors today. 

This 1978 GMC K1500 is equipped with a replacement 350 cu-in V8 wearing light modifications and a TH-400 transmission, and has been refinished in blue and white paint.

Highlights 

• Four-wheel-drive K1500 wearing upgrades and a repaint 

• Replacement 350 cu-in V8 with low mileage 

• Three-speed TH-400 automatic transmission rebuilt 2,000 miles ago 

• Refinished in blue and white with black and gray interior 

• Power windows, power locks, and tilt power steering 

• Vintage Air air conditioning 

Features 

• 15-inch wheels wearing 31x10.50P15LT BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A tires 

• Front power disc brakes 

• Rebuilt suspension with new shocks, ball joints, Pitman arm, and steering damper 

• Edelbrock intake manifold and carburetor 

• California-legal headers and no cats (originally a federal truck) 

• Electric cooling fan 

• Dual 20-gallon fuel tanks with new senders and fuel lines 

• Bedliner and bed-mounted toolbox 

• 100-mph speedometer, 5,000-rpm tachometer, oil pressure, coolant temp, voltage, and fuel level gauges 

• New upholstery, carpet, seat belts, and headliner, with sound deadener and thermal insulation under carpet 

• Aftermarket center console 

• Pioneer AM/FM/CD player 

Known Imperfections 

• Interior and exterior wear commensurate with its age 

• Speedometer didn’t work for years 

• Light rust on rims 

• Small crack on windshield 

• Rear bumper slightly bent 

Included 

• Keys 

• Spare wheel 

• Bumper jack 

Ownership History

The consignor states, “I purchased the truck in 1994. The speedo wasn't working, so I had it repaired in 2000. I don’t know how long the previous owner drove it with the speedo not working. In any case, the engine, transmission, and drivetrain has either been replaced or overhauled since 2000. And it passed a California smog and equipment check in January 2025.”