By Greg McKinney Mineola Texas

The 1960s were a decade of great change in the automotive industry, and Chevrolet pickup trucks were no exception. During this time, Chevrolet made significant improvements to the design, engines, transmissions, and features of their pickup trucks. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the Chevrolet pickup trucks of the 1960s, with a particular focus on the major design change that occurred in 1967.

Body Design

The body design of the Chevrolet pickup trucks of the early 1960s was boxy and utilitarian. The front grille was large and imposing, and the body had a muscular and rugged appearance. However, as the decade progressed, Chevrolet began to make changes to the body design to make their trucks more stylish and visually appealing.

In 1960, Chevrolet introduced the Fleetside bed, which had a smooth and flat surface, making it easier to load and unload cargo. This design was a significant departure from the traditional step-side bed design, which had been popular in pickup trucks for decades. The Fleetside bed had a sleek and modern look, and it quickly became a popular option for Chevrolet pickup truck buyers.

In 1967, Chevrolet introduced a major design change that would define the look of their pickup trucks for years to come. This new design was known as the “Action Line” or the “Glamour Pickups.” The new design featured a rounded cab and sloping hood, giving the truck a sleek and aerodynamic look. The front grille was smaller and more subtle, and the headlights were positioned vertically, giving the truck a more modern appearance.

The new design was an instant hit with truck buyers, and it quickly became one of the most popular pickup truck designs of all time. The 1967-1972 Chevrolet pickup trucks are still highly sought after today by collectors and enthusiasts.

Engine and Transmission

The engines and transmissions in Chevrolet pickup trucks of the 1960s were powerful and reliable, but they also evolved throughout the decade. In the early 1960s, the most popular engine option was the small-block V8, which ranged in size from 283 to 400 cubic inches. This engine was known for its durability and versatility and was used in a wide range of Chevrolet vehicles throughout the 1960s.

In the mid-1960s, Chevrolet introduced a new engine option for their pickup trucks. This new engine was the big-block V8, which ranged in size from 396 to 454 cubic inches. This engine was even more powerful than the small-block V8, and it quickly became a popular option for truck buyers who needed more towing and hauling capacity.

In terms of transmissions, the three-speed manual was the most common option, but four-speed manuals and automatic transmissions were also available. The transmissions were rugged and reliable, and they were well-suited to the utilitarian nature of the trucks.

Features

The Chevrolet pickup trucks of the 1960s were packed with innovative and useful features that set them apart from the competition. One of the most notable features was the Fleetside bed, which was introduced in 1960. This bed had a smooth and flat surface, making it easier to load and unload cargo. It also had a sleek and modern look that was ahead of its time.

Other notable features of Chevrolet pickup trucks of the 1960s included power steering, power brakes, and air conditioning, which were all available as optional extras. These features helped to make the trucks more comfortable and convenient for everyday use, and they were popular with truck buyers who wanted a more luxurious driving experience.

The 1967-1972 Chevrolet pickup trucks were particularly noteworthy for their innovative interior features. These trucks featured a newly designed dashboard and instrument cluster, which made it easier for drivers to monitor their vehicle.

In conclusion, the Chevrolet pickup trucks of the 1960s were a product of their time, reflecting the changing tastes and needs of American consumers. The 1967-1972 design, in particular, was a game-changer, setting the standard for pickup truck design for decades to come. The improvements made to the body design, engines, transmissions, and features of these trucks helped to make them more versatile, comfortable, and stylish, appealing to a wider range of consumers. Today, these trucks remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, a testament to their enduring popularity and influence on the automotive industry. Whether you’re a truck enthusiast or just appreciate the design and innovation of classic vehicles, the Chevrolet pickup trucks of the 1960s are definitely worth exploring.