Known colloquially as the Square Body Chevrolet trucks, the 1973-1987 genre was one of the longest-running, most successful lines of light-duty personal trucks ever introduced. Ironically, Chevrolet designers would call these trucks the Rounded Line, in spite of their absolutely flat-planed and cubical styling, which oddly enough would prove in wind tunnels to be more aerodynamic than any previous full-size GM pickup. It was a rare moment in automotive history, as these trucks would lead the way for cars to come, such as the downsized full-size GM cars to debut for 1977. Square and blocky, they didn’t look like they could cheat any wind, but oddly enough were very slippery, and thanks to their lighter weight and smaller-displacement engines, offered motorists vastly improved efficiency. These aerodynamics would largely be discovered with the Rounded Line trucks. This single-cab 1981 Chevrolet C10 is finished in black and features the dually rear-end treatment and 4-wheel drive. Under the hood resides a 454 CI V-8 engine that’s been rebuilt with a hydraulic roller cam, CVF serpentine belt setup, a Quick Fuel carburetor atop a TSP intake manifold, aluminum valve covers and headers with a dual exhaust system. Backed by a rebuilt Turbo 400 automatic transmission, the front axle has been rebuilt including the bearings, hubs and springs, and new driveshafts have been installed front and rear. The chassis is set with the dual rear wheels, a new Hydroboost power brake system, power steering, new BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A tires with 8-hole aluminum wheels, Warn locking front hubs, and a new fuel tank. The black interior features a bench seat, new weather stripping, a 3-spoke steering wheel, factory air conditioning, a Custom AutoSound radio and new door handles, locks, latches and vent windows. Highlighting the noir body are new chrome bumpers, a new grille, Holley LED headlights and a bedliner. An aluminum radiator keeps the big-block engine cool and side steps provide an easier ingress-egress experience.
