1978 GMC Caballero
VIN: 5W80U8Z501314
With Sprint being the original name for the GMC version (produced from 1971-1977) of the famed coupe utility/pickup, these cars are the cousin to the famed El Camino from Chevrolet. However, from 1978-87, GMC produced the light duty truck under the Caballero moniker with the modern translation from Spanish to mean “Gentleman”. Trim designations, emblems, and wheel trim differentiate the GMC from the El Camino and the Caballero was sold by GMC truck dealers throughout the US.
The current owner of 4 years is only the 2nd. The original owner bought the car from Victor Motors in Brigham City, UT. He owned it up until his death 14 years ago at which time his Son-in- Law, Jeff Isbell used it as his "parts chaser" in his Speed Shop in Salt Lake City (Dealer Plates for 10 yrs). Jeff is recognized in the racing world as the 2008 Winner Top Alcohol Dragster at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. While in Jeff's care, the original GMC 350 ci. engine was built to a 383 Stroker with a 5 speed manual transmission behind it. The engine was reportedly built by former NHRA Pro-Stock Engine Builder Nick Ferri of NF Racing. I had the engine compression checked right after I bought it and seven cylinders tested @ 200psi and the 8th. cylinder was 195psi. (#3cylinder) It runs great but probably should have a posi-traction rear end.
The Caballero received a Refurbishment under current ownership. The body work was very well done with all surface rust removed and repaired as needed. A new metal hood was ordered in and replaced the old one in lieu of repair. The paint scheme is Midnight Black over Red Wine and a heavy bed coating in black.
All New Black Madrid Vinyl upholstery and ACC carpet was ordered from Eckler's and installed by AAA Top Shop of Ogden, UT.
Many new parts were ordered from OPG and installed during the Refurbishment which include:
* Chrome Alternator
* Duralast Gold Battery
* New Distributor
* Water Pump
* 8000 RPM "Autogage" Tachometer
* New Front & Rear Bumper w/ tail lamps
* Grand National Shorty Console for Bench Seat
* L/H & R/H Outside Mirrors
* Air Bag style Shock Absorbers in Rear
* Chrome Exhaust Tips
* Power Steering Gear Box (Lifetime Warranty) and Hoses
* Grant 13" Padded Steering Wheel (Black)
* Clutch Pressure Plate
* Dome Light
* Door handles and window cranks
* Grill Assembly
* Headliner
* Tailgate Cables & Vertical Seals and Chrome Top Plate
* Power Brakes Disc Rotor, Hub, Inner & Outer Wheel Bearings and Seals
* Differential Serviced
* Fisher Body Door Sills
* Full Dash Pad Assembly, Sunvisors, Arm Rests and Door Panels w/3" Speaker Holes
* Front Air Dam
* Chrome 3-Bar Spinner Center Caps
The 15inch rims are from a Special Edition 1978 GMC Amarillo GT 1/2 ton pickup. They have Cooper Cobra Radial GT tires installed; P215/70R15 in the front and P255/70R15 in the rear.
Pin Striping was beautifully layed on by Bruno Perry of Washington Terrace, Utah
Mileage: 46,929 (not believed to be original)
Original Fremont, California GMC Factory "Build Sheet" is provided as it was found in the passenger door panel when reupholstered.
This car has been consigned to the 7th Annual Salt Lake City Classic Car Auction hosted by the Classic Car Auction Group. The auction is Saturday, May 14 at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy, Utah. To consign your car and/or to register to bid on this and other cars in the auction go to http://www.classiccarauction.us.
