1974 Chevrolet K20 problems

General information about Chevrolet-K20
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The third generation of the C/K series is a range of trucks that was manufactured by General Motors from the 1973 to 1991 model years. Serving as the replacement for the "Action Line" C/K trucks, GM designated the generation under "Rounded Line" moniker. Again offered as a two-door pickup truck and chassis cab, the Rounded Line trucks marked the introduction of a four-door cab configuration.

Marketed under the Chevrolet and GMC brands, the Rounded Line C/K chassis also served as the basis of GM full-size SUVs, including the Chevrolet/GMC Suburban wagon and the off-road oriented Chevrolet K5 Blazer/GMC Jimmy. The generation also shared body commonality with GM medium-duty commercial trucks.

In early 1987, GM introduced the 1988 fourth-generation C/K to replace the Rounded Line generation, with the company beginning a multi-year transition between the two generations. To eliminate model overlap, the Rounded Line C/K was renamed the R/V series, which remained as a basis for full-size SUVs and heavier-duty pickup trucks. After an 18-year production run (exceeded only in longevity by the Dodge D/W-series/Ram pickup and the Jeep Gladiator/Pickup), the Rounded Line generation was retired after the 1991 model year.

From 1972 to 1991, General Motors produced the Rounded Line C/K (later R/V) series in multiple facilities across the United States and Canada. In South America, the model line was produced in Argentina and Brazil, ending in 1997.

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Common 1974 Chevrolet K20 problems

The Chevrolet K20, produced in 1974, is a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts. However, like any vehicle, it has its common problems and weaknesses. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the 1974 Chevrolet K20:

Ignition Switch Problems: Ignition switch problems are common in Chevy trucks, including the K20. These problems can manifest as the truck not starting, no sounds or noises when turning the key, and the heater fan turning on but no vrooming or clicking sounds.

Fuel Tank Defect: The 1973-1987 Chevy C10 and GMC trucks, including the K20, have a fuel tank defect known as the "sidesaddle design".

Starter and Alternator Issues: The K20's starter and alternator can also cause problems. If the truck won't start, it may be due to a faulty starter or alternator. In some cases, the starter may not have power going to it, which can be tested using a test light.

Neutral/Clutch Pedal Switch Bypass: The K20 may have a neutral/clutch pedal switch bypass, which can cause problems if it's not working correctly. This bypass is typically located under the dash and is designed to prevent the truck from starting unless the clutch pedal is depressed.

In summary, the 1974 Chevrolet K20 has several common problems, including rust, ignition switch issues, fuel tank defects, starter and alternator problems, and neutral/clutch pedal switch bypass issues. To keep your K20 running smoothly, it's essential to address these issues promptly and follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.

What engines were available in the 1973 K20?

Powertrain. At its 1973 launch, the Rounded-Line pickup trucks were offered with five different engines. A 250 cubic-inch inline-six was standard, with the option of a 292 cubic-inch inline-6, a 307 cubic-inch V8, a 350 cubic-inch V8, and a 454 cubic-inch V8.

What engine is in a 1974 Chevy truck?

The 75 C-10 model's had a 250 cid in-line 6 as the base engine and small block 350 and 400 cid V8s as well as the big block 454 cid V8. And quite possibly others as well. What does it mean when they speak of the torquing capability of both the Ford or Chevy trucks or cars for example?

What is a K20 Chevy truck?

This is a four-wheel drive 3/4 ton Stepside pickup built on a 127 inch wheelbase with a ladder type frame. Unlike today's 4x4 trucks, manual front locking hubs and a two speed transfer case were standard. These trucks borrowed heavily from military vehicles and were very rugged.

Why won't my Chevy truck turn over?

Chevy owners need to understand the potential causes behind this issue. A non-starting vehicle can signal anything from a drained battery or a faulty ignition system to fuel delivery problems. Identifying the root cause is the first step in getting your trusted truck back to its optimal condition.

What engines were available in the 1973 K20?

Is the Chevy K20 a 3 4 ton?

Is a Chevy K20 4 wheel drive?

The K20 was a four-wheel-drive version of the C20, with a larger payload capacity and a more powerful engine. The 1982 Chevrolet K20 came equipped with a standard 5.0-liter V8 engine that produced 150 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque.

What year is a Chevy K20?

The Chevrolet K20 was a variant of the 3rd Gen C/K that was introduced for the 1973 model year. The K20, which was a 3/4 ton, all wheel driv... The Chevrolet K20 was a variant of the 3rd Gen C/K that was introduced for the 1973 model year.

1974 Chevrolet K20 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet K20 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Visibility problems
Equipment problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1974 Chevrolet K20 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1974 Chevrolet K20 complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1974 Chevrolet K20.

2010-05-12

VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2007-03-09
Components: VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1974 CHEVROLET 3 1/4 TON K20. THE VEHICLE HAS TRIPLE EDGE WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES MANUFACTURED BY JAMAK FABRICATIONS. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS A CONTINUOUS BUILDUP OF SILICONE ON THE FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES. THIS WOULD CAUSE THE WINDSHIELD TO BECOME EXTREMELY CLOUDY, SIMILAR TO DRIVING THROUGH A DEEP FOG. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ADVISED THAT THE BUILDUP WAS NORMAL AND COULD EASILY BE WASHED FROM THE WINDSHIELD. THE CONTACT'S INSURANCE ADJUSTER ADVISED THE BUILDUP WAS A SAFETY ISSUE AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED ACCORDINGLY.

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1974 Chevrolet K20 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1974 Chevrolet K20.

2007-10-24

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.