1987 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 1987 Chevrolet C10 problems
The 1987 Chevrolet C10 is a popular choice among truck enthusiasts, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Based on owner complaints and repair records, here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the 1987 Chevrolet C10:
- Weak Frames: The early standard-equipment square-body C10s had weak frames that twist. The solution is to buy a Big 10 or Heavy Half with the F44 package, which in C10 shortbed or longbed form has heavier-duty framerails and crossmembers.
- Windshield Wiper Motor Component Failure: The windshield wipers on models made between 1990 and 1999 may stop working intermittently due to a defective wiper motor. Auto manufacturers issued recalls for this problem on some models. If you experience trouble with your windshield wipers, check with a dealer to see if there is a recall on your vehicle.
- Coolant Leaks or Oil Leaks From Intake Manifold Gaskets: Coolant leaks or oil leaks from intake manifold gaskets are a common problem in the 1987 Chevrolet C10. These leaks can cause the engine to run poorly or stall, and may require replacing the intake manifold gaskets.
- Alternator Failure: In older Sierras and Silverados, the alternator may eventually fail, causing the battery to die and, possibly, an abnormal noise to occur. This may or may not cause a dash warning light to come on. If your alternator fails, you will need to replace it, which typically costs around $300 to $400. This problem occurs on average at around 125,000 miles.
- Internal Distributor Faults: Numerous drivers have reported that their truck developed internal faults in the distributor, although this problem isn’t as common as some of the others on this list. You may hear a squealing noise coming from the distributor, and the issue may cause the engine to run roughly or stall. The check engine light may or may not come on. You’ll need to overhaul or replace the internal distributor to correct this problem.
In summary, the 1987 Chevrolet C10 has several common problems that owners should be aware of, including fueling system issues, rusting, weak frames, windshield wiper motor component failure, coolant leaks or oil leaks from intake manifold gaskets, alternator failure, and internal distributor faults. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues or catch them early before they become more serious problems.
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 year is the most desirable C10?
Q: What is the most sought after square body Chevy? A: The 1987 Chevy C10 is often considered the most sought after square body Chevy. This year marked the end of the third generation C/K series, making it a favorite among collectors.
What engine is in a 1987 Chevy C10?
What makes the 1987 Chevy truck models so special is that it was the last year for the classic bodylines, but the first year you could get fuel injection. This gives the new create 350 cubic-inch V8 under the hood a real advantage for usability and performance.
How many miles can a Chevy C10 last?
On average, a well-maintained Chevy in Santa Clarita can last for over 200,000 miles or more. In fact, many Chevy trucks have been known to last for 300,000 miles or more with regular maintenance and proper care.
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 1987 Chevy C10?
What makes the 1987 Chevy truck models so special is that it was the last year for the classic bodylines, but the first year you could get fuel injection. This gives the new create 350 cubic-inch V8 under the hood a real advantage for usability and performance.
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.
What is the difference between a 1987 Chevy C10 and K10?
The main difference between the C10 and K10 is that the K10 is four-wheel drive, while the C10 is two-wheel drive. The K10 also has a slightly different suspension package and sits higher than the C10 due to the drivetrain configuration. As the K10 is a 4x4, it is more frequently used off-road compared to the C10.
1987 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:
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Chevrolet C10 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1987 Chevrolet C10 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Chevrolet C10.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE AND PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT BELT BUCKLES COME LOOSE (WOULDN'T LOCK ). PLEASE DESCRIBE .*AK
Other years of Chevrolet C10
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