1986 Chevrolet C10 problems
The Chevrolet C/K is a series of trucks that was manufactured by General Motors from the 1960 to 2002 model years. Marketed by both the Chevrolet and GMC divisions, the C/K series encompassed a wide range of vehicles. While most commonly associated with pickup trucks, the model line also included chassis-cab trucks and medium-duty trucks and served as the basis for GM full-size SUVs. Through its entire production, the model line competed directly against the Ford F-Series and the Dodge D series (later the Dodge Ram pickup).
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). For the fourth-generation (colloquially also known as OBS trucks), Chevrolet kept using the C/K designation while GMC revised its branding, changing to a singular GMC Sierra nameplate (C/K remained as an internal model code).
For South America, the model line was manufactured by General Motors de Argentina from 1960 to 1978, Sevel Argentina from 1986 to 1991, and General Motors Brazil, who produced versions of the model line for Brazil, Argentina, and Chile from 1964 to 2001.
As GM entered the 1990s, the company revised its truck ranges, replacing the medium-duty C/K trucks with the Chevrolet Kodiak/GMC TopKick for 1990. For 1999, GM replaced the fourth-generation C/K pickup trucks with an all-new model line; in line with GMC, Chevrolet dropped the C/K nameplate (in favor of a singular Chevrolet Silverado nameplate). Initially marketed with its successor, the final C/K pickup trucks were produced for the 2000 model year. From 2001 to 2002, the final vehicles of the C/K model line were medium-duty chassis cab trucks.
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Common 1986 Chevrolet C10 problems
Based on the information provided in the search results, here are some common problems reported by owners of the 1986 Chevrolet C10:
- Choke Thermostat: The choke thermostat in the 1986 Chevrolet C10 has been known to fail a few months after purchase. A malfunctioning choke thermostat can affect the engine's performance, leading to starting issues and poor fuel efficiency. Replacing the choke thermostat is crucial to ensure proper engine function.
- Distributor Issues: Owners have experienced problems with the distributor cap, rotor, and the distributor itself failing. Replacing these components with a distributor featuring vacuum advance has been reported to improve the truck's reliability. Addressing distributor issues promptly is vital to prevent engine misfires and stalling.
- Rust: Early square-body Chevy C10 trucks, including the 1986 model, were prone to rusting issues. Rust could develop on various parts of the truck, affecting its structural integrity and aesthetics. Regular inspections and rust prevention measures are essential to maintain the truck's condition and longevity.
- Interior Wear: Some owners have noted wear and tear on the interior components of the 1986 Chevrolet C10, such as seat damage and sun fading on door panels. While these issues may not affect the truck's performance, addressing them can enhance the overall comfort and appearance of the vehicle.
- Frame Twisting: Early standard-equipment square-body C10s had weak frames that were prone to twisting. Opting for models with heavier-duty framerails and crossmembers, such as the Big 10 or Heavy Half with the F44 package, can help prevent frame twisting issues. Ensuring the structural integrity of the frame is crucial for the truck's safety and stability.
By addressing these common problems proactively and performing regular maintenance, owners of the 1986 Chevrolet C10 can ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicles.
Are Chevy C10s reliable?
Chevy C10s are some of the most reliable classic pickups out there, and the great news is that there are a lot of them.
What engine is in a 1986 Chevy C10?
Specifications for Chevrolet C10 Regular Cab 4.3 V6 157hp, 1986 3rd Generation 1st Facelift (1981 - 1987)
What year is the best C10?
Q: What year C10 is the most popular? A: The 1973-1987 models, known as the "Square Body" generation, are often considered the most popular among enthusiasts. These models are known for their rugged design, reliability, and ease of modification, making them a favorite among restorers and custom builders.
Are Chevy C10 easy to work on?
Chevrolet C10
A basic C10 from the first or second generation is a relatively easy vehicle to work on, as, like the Ford, it's a simplistic thing, and there's little that can go wrong.
1986 Chevrolet C10 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet C10 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Power train problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Chevrolet C10 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Chevrolet C10 complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Chevrolet C10.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-10
- VIN: 2GCDC14N111
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: PLASTIC COVER ON FUEL TANK ALLOWED SAND TO COLECT CAUSING RUST THRU OF FUEL TANK AND FUEL LEAKAGE
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-20
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: STEEL FUEL FILTER ADAPTER THREADS STRIPED CARB BODY CAUSING FUEL LEAK ONTO ENGINE
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-18
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1GCEC14H4GF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY 1986 CHEVY 1/2 TON PU TRUCK CAUGHT FIRE WHILE TRAVELLING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT 65 MPH WITH ME AND MY 71 YEAR OLD FATHER IN IT. I AM CONVINCED THE PROBLEM WAS CAUSED BY THE TRANSMISSION OVERHEATING AND PRESSURE BLOWING THE FLUID OUT THE DIPSTICK TUBE. AT THE TIME WE WERE PULLING A BOAT (18' PONTOON BOAT) DOWN ALABAMA INTERSTATE 65 SOUTH WHEN WE HEARD SEVERAL EXPLOSIONS UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. IT WAS APPROX. 4:45 AM ON 6/18/99. I LOOKED OUT MY SIDE WINDOW AND SAW LARGE BRIGHT ORANGE AND YELLOW REFLECTIONS ON THE PAVEMENT INDICATING A SEVERE FIRE UNDERNEATH OUR VEHICLE (THERE WERE NO INDICATIONS OF A PROBLEM BEFORE THE EXPLOSIONS OCCURRED). WE WERE APPROACHING AN OVERPASS WITH AN 18 WHEELER DIRECTLY BEHIND US AND ANOTHER VEHICLE OVERTAKING US IN THE LEFT PASSING LANE. THERE WAS NO SAFE PLACE (SHOULDER) TO STOP. I PROCEEDED ACROSS THE OVERPASS AND PULLED OVER IMMEDIATELY. WE FEEL VERY FORTUNATE THAT WE WERE NOT INJURED AND THAT THE ENTIRE VEHICLE AND BOAT DID NOT BURN TOTALLY. ONCE I GOT STOPPED, I POPPED THE HOOD, SAW THE FLAMES THROUGH THE DENSE SMOKE, RACED TO THE BOAT, RETRIEVED THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER, RACED BACK AND PUT MOST OF THE FIRE OUT. AFTER COMPLETELY EXPELLING THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER, SMALL FLAMES WERE STILL VISIBLE. I QUICKLY RETRIEVED 2 GALLONS OF WATER THAT WE HAD IN THE BACK OF THE TRUCK AND PUT THE REMAINDER OF THE FIRE OUT WITH IT. THERE IS CONSIDERABLE DAMAGE UNDER THE HOOD BUT APPARENTLY NOT ENOUGH FOR THE TRUCK TO BE CONSIDERED "TOTALED" BY MY INSURANCE COMPANY. AFTER WALKING TO THE NEAREST PHONE I DIALED 911. A LOCAL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT. WAS DISPATCHED. A FIRE TRUCK AND FIREMAN ARRIVED SHORTLY THEREAFTERE AND INSPECTED UNDER THE DASH AND HOOD THOROUGHLY TO MAKE SURE THE FIRE WAS TOTALLY OUT. A REPORT WAS FILLED OUT BY THE FIREMAN. THE TRUCK AND BOAT WERE TOWED BACK TO MY DAD'S RESIDENT THAT MORNING BY TATE'S WRECKER SERVICE IN ATHENS AL. (NOTE: THE TRUCK IS A 2 OWNER. IT HAS BEEN VERY DEPENDABLE, WELL MAINTAINED AND WAS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION.)
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1GCCC14N8GS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SPEEDOMETER FAILED, A MUCH LOWER MILEAGE WAS INDICATED THAN VEHICLE ACTUALLY TRAVELED. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-23
- VIN: 1GCDC14HXGS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: STARTED TO SMELL GAS AND DISCOVERED THAT THE GAS TANK SUPPORTS HAD RUSTED THROUGHAND CAUSED THE GAS TANK TO COME LOOSE/VIBRATE WHICH RUBBED A HOLE IN THE TANK. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-20
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE GAS TANK COLLECTS WATER AND HOLDS IT AND THE GAS TANK RUSTS OUT. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-20
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE GAS TANK COLLECTS WATER AND HOLDS IT AND THE GAS TANK RUSTS OUT. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-25
- VIN: 1GCTC14HXGF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SHOULDER/LAP BELT BUCKLE WON'T RELEASE, ALSO PASSENGER BUCKLE POPS OPEN. TT
1986 Chevrolet C10 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1986 Chevrolet C10.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALLY. THE DATE CODE AND PART NUMBER APPEAR ON THE FILTER HOUSING. FRAM RACING HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS NOT BEARING A DATE CODE IN THIS RANGE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL. THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEALING AND LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED OIL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-890-2075.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
- Summary: IMPROPER SIZE REAR BRAKE ASSEMBLIES WERE INSTALLED.
- Consequence: TRUCKS COULD EXCEED THE MAXIMUM STOPPING DISTANCEPERMITTED BY FMVSS 105, HYDRAULIC BRAKE SYSTEMS, CREATING THE POTENTIAL FOR AVEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: REPLACE REAR AXLE BRAKE ASSEMBLIES WITH PROPER SIZE ASSEMBLIES.
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