1973 Chevrolet C10 Short Bed – Lifetime California Truck, Affordable Classic
Here’s a rare opportunity to own a classic 1973 Chevrolet C10 Short Bed, a true survivor from the golden age of American pickups. This truck has spent its entire life in sunny California and has been in the care of the same owner since the mid-1970s. Originally purchased to serve as a shop truck for an auto repair business in Red Bluff, California, this C10 is largely rust-free, making it a fantastic base for restoration or a great project truck with lots of potential. Given its desirable short bed body style, this truck is an affordable way to get into the sought-after classic Chevy C10 market.
Lifetime California Truck – Rust-Free Except for Minor Blemishes: This Chevrolet C10 has always lived in California, benefiting from the state’s dry climate. As a result, the truck is largely rust-free, with only two small bubbling spots on the doors—hardly noticeable and easily repairable. Finding a short bed C10 in this condition is becoming increasingly difficult, especially one that has been well-loved and preserved in the same family for nearly five decades.
Factory 454 V8 Swapped for a Reliable 350 V8: While the truck originally came with a factory 454 V8 powerplant, it was swapped out years ago for a 350 cubic inch V8 engine. The current engine is reported to be healthy, with plenty of life left in it, but the truck has been sitting unused for the past five years following the owner’s passing. As a result, it will require some fine-tuning and basic mechanical checks before it’s ready to cruise the streets once again. This presents a fantastic opportunity for a DIY enthusiast or someone looking to invest in a truck with massive potential at a reasonable price.
Key Features:
Mechanical Condition – Ready for Revival: Though this C10 has been sitting for about five years, the owner’s family reports that the engine is in good health and should fire up with a little TLC. A thorough inspection and minor mechanical refurbishment are recommended to ensure everything is in proper working order. This includes checking the fuel system, replacing fluids, and potentially tuning up the engine. However, with a solid drivetrain and a trusty 350 V8 under the hood, this truck offers a straightforward project for anyone with basic mechanical skills or the resources to have it revived by a professional.
Exterior and Body Condition: The exterior of this 1973 C10 remains in great shape, thanks to its California heritage. The body panels are solid, with no significant rust issues apart from the two tiny bubbling spots on the doors. For a truck of this vintage, this is a rare find, as many C10s from this era have succumbed to rust, especially in harsher climates. The short bed configuration is one of the most desirable and sought-after body styles among collectors and builders, making this truck an ideal candidate for restoration or customization.
Interior Condition: The interior of this C10 is basic but functional, as expected for a working shop truck. While it shows signs of wear from years of use, it remains largely original and provides a blank canvas for customization. Whether you’re looking to restore it to its factory look or personalize it with modern touches, the interior offers plenty of potential.
Why This C10 Short Bed Stands Out: Short bed C10s are among the most desirable and collectible classic trucks, and prices for these trucks have been steadily climbing in recent years. This 1973 model checks all the boxes—it’s a lifetime California truck, meaning rust issues are minimal, and it’s had the same owner for nearly five decades. It comes with a healthy 350 V8 engine, and while it needs some fine-tuning due to sitting for five years, it presents an excellent opportunity for someone who wants to get into the classic C10 market without paying sky-high prices.
Perfect for Restoration or Custom Build: Whether you’re looking to restore this C10 to its original glory, turn it into a showstopper with a custom build, or simply get it road-ready for everyday cruising, this truck offers endless possibilities. Its rust-free condition, desirable short bed configuration, and solid mechanical foundation make it an ideal candidate for any direction you choose to take it.
Reasonably Priced and Ready for a New Owner: At just $9,995, this 1973 Chevrolet C10 Short Bed is priced to sell, offering exceptional value for a truck with such potential. Given the rising demand for classic short bed pickups, this is an opportunity to own a piece of automotive history without breaking the bank. With some minor mechanical work, you could be driving a true classic that turns heads and brings smiles wherever it goes.
Contact Information: For more details or to schedule a viewing, contact Michael Platt at Platt Motors Inc. in Anderson, California. We have additional photos and information available upon request. Don’t miss your chance to own this classic short bed C10 before it’s gone!
Call 707-599-9448 or visit plattmotors.com. You can also email [email protected] for more details. This C10 Short Bed is waiting for its next owner—could that be you?
