GM Action Line Trucks: Complete Generation Guide (1967–1972)

The Action Line: GM's First Modern Pickup

The 1967–1972 GM C/K trucks — known as the "Action Line" — represented a dramatic departure from the previous 1960–1966 C/K. GM introduced coil spring front suspension on all 2WD models (a first for American pickups), a wider cab, and the first true luxury trim packages. These trucks bridged the gap between work vehicles and personal vehicles, setting the stage for the luxury truck market that exploded with the Squarebody.

Production numbers are estimates — GM did not break out C10 from total C-series production in this era. The 1969 model year is the sweet spot: 350ci V8, leaf spring rear (more reliable than 1967–1968 coil), and CST trim.

Engine Specifications

The 350ci V8 (introduced in 1969) is the engine to have. The 307 is acceptable but 20–30% less valuable. The 250ci I6 is fine for a driver but significantly less valuable. The 396/402 big-block is extremely rare in C10 — most were installed in C20/C30 work trucks.

Trim Level Matrix

CST (1967–1970) and Cheyenne (1971–1972) are the top trims to look for. GMC Sierra/Sierra Grande is mechanically identical to Chevrolet CST/Cheyenne but typically 20–30% cheaper — the GMC badge carries less collector premium.

Market Values by Condition (2026)

Values from Bring a Trailer, Mecum, and Hemmings sold data (2024–2026). SWB = Short Wheelbed (short bed), LWB = Long Wheelbed (long bed). Short beds are worth 60–80% more than long beds. CST/Cheyenne trim adds 30–50% over base.

Value Trend Chart (2020–2026)

1967–1968 Coil Spring vs 1969–1972 Leaf Spring

Key Option Codes (RPO)

Chevrolet vs GMC: Is There a Difference?

The Chevrolet C10 and GMC 1500 (both 1/2-ton pickups) are mechanically identical — same frame, same engines, same transmissions, same axles. The differences are cosmetic: grille design, badging, and trim naming. GMC used "Sierra" and "Sierra Grande" where Chevrolet used "CST" and "Cheyenne".

GMC trucks are the value play — identical mechanicals at 20–30% lower prices. If you want the driving experience and don't care about the bowtie badge, buy a GMC Sierra Grande.

Common Rust Areas

• Cab corners (lower rear of cab)
  • Same issue as Squarebody and F-100 — #1 problem
  • Check from underneath; outside may look fine
• Rocker panels
  • Visible from outside; check for bubbling
  • Full replacement: $400 part, 6–10 hours
• Floor pans
  • Check under rubber mat for hidden rust
  • Common where moisture collects from cowl leaks
• Cab mounts (where cab bolts to frame)
  • Critical structural area
  • If rusted through, cab can shift on frame
• Bed floor and wheel wells
  • Wood bed floor rots from bottom
  • Check where bed bolts to frame
• Front fender lower rear corners
  • Where fender meets cab; debris collects here
  • Check inside fender well

Buying Guide: Best Years and Variants

• Best investment: 1969–1970 C10 CST 350ci short bed
  • 350 V8 + leaf spring rear + CST top trim = the sweet spot
  • $55,000 (#2); appreciating 10–15% annually
  • 1969 was the first year for the 350 — milestone engine
• Best value: 1971–1972 C10 Cheyenne 350ci short bed
  • Same 350 V8, Cheyenne trim (equivalent to CST)
  • $40,000 (#2) — 25% cheaper than 1969–1970 CST
  • More available than 1969–1970; easier to find
• Best GMC value: 1969–1972 GMC Sierra Grande 350ci short bed
  • Mechanically identical to Chevrolet CST/Cheyenne
  • $33,000 (#2) — 20–30% cheaper than Chevy equivalent
  • Same truck, different badge
• Best 4WD: 1969–1972 K10 Cheyenne 350ci short bed
  • 4WD adds utility and value; rarer than 2WD
  • $45,000 (#2) — 15% premium over C10 equivalent
  • Great for off-road events and winter driving
• Best entry point: 1967–1968 C10 307ci base short bed
  • $25,000 (#2) — cheapest way into Action Line ownership
  • 307 is adequate; can swap to 350 later
  • Coil spring rear is unique conversation piece
• Avoid: Long bed base models with 250ci I6
  • Lowest value configuration; minimal appreciation
  • Better as a work truck than a collector
  • Only buy if price is under $10,000

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are Action Line trucks more valuable than Squarebodies?
  • Yes — Action Line (1967–1972) trucks are worth 30–50% more than equivalent Squarebody (1973–1987) trucks. The Action Line is rarer, older, and has more classic styling. However, Squarebody parts are more readily available and cheaper.
• What is the CST package?
  • CST (Custom Sport Truck) was the top trim package from 1967–1970. It added carpet, full interior trim, chrome bumpers, and A/C preparation. In 1971, CST was replaced by the Cheyenne and Cheyenne Super packages.
• Should I buy a 1967–1968 with coil springs?
  • Only if you want originality or a unique conversation piece. The coil spring rear is more comfortable but prone to axle wrap and harder to lower (for restomod builds). Most buyers prefer 1969–1972 leaf spring trucks. Coil spring trucks are ~10% cheaper than equivalent 1969+ models.
• Is the 396/402 big-block worth the premium?
  • In a C10, the 396/402 is extremely rare and commands a premium, but it's not as desirable as in a Chevelle or Camaro. The 350 is the better choice — lighter, better balanced, and cheaper to maintain. Save the big-block for a C20 or C30 tow truck.
• Can I use a 1967–1972 C10 as a daily driver?
  • Yes, with caveats. Drum brakes (standard on most) are marginal for modern traffic. No airbags, no ABS, no crumple zones. A 350ci with TH350 automatic is the most reliable daily-driver configuration. Budget $2,000–$4,000 for front disc brake conversion if yours has drums.