1967-72 Chevrolet C/K Pickup: Blending Vintage Style with Modern Performance

The Timeless Appeal of the 1967-72 Chevrolet and GMC C/K Pickup

For enthusiasts of muscle cars, classic trucks, and street rods, the 1967-72 Chevrolet and GMC C/K pickup trucks hold a special place in automotive history. These vehicles are celebrated for their rugged design, versatility, and timeless appeal, making them a favorite among collectors and restorers. Whether it’s the sleek lines of the Chevrolet C-10 or the robust build of the GMC K-series, these trucks have become a canvas for personalization and performance upgrades.

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One of the most iconic models from this era is the 1967 Chevrolet C-10 shortbed. Known for its clean, minimalist design and reliable performance, the C-10 has become a symbol of American automotive culture. It’s no wonder that Holley Performance, a leader in high-performance automotive parts, chose this classic truck as the platform to showcase its latest innovations.

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Holley Performance’s Vision: A Modernized Classic

When Tom Tomlinson, CEO of Holley Performance, acquired a fully restored 1967 Chevrolet C-10, it was more than just a purchase—it was a statement. The truck, a two-wheel-drive shortbed model, was in pristine condition, making it seem almost sacrilegious to tear it apart. However, Tomlinson had a vision: to create a vehicle that combined the nostalgic charm of the original C-10 with the cutting-edge performance of modern technology.

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Holley Performance is renowned for its high-performance carburetors, fuel injection systems, and exhaust components, which have powered everything from NASCAR stock cars to drag racing vehicles. With the growing trend of swapping late-model GM LS engines into vintage vehicles, the 1967 C-10 became the perfect candidate to demonstrate Holley’s latest product line.

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The Heart of the Build: LS3 Engine Swap

At the core of this project was the decision to replace the original 230-cubic-inch inline-six engine with a modern GM LS3 6.2-liter V-8. This engine, capable of producing 480 horsepower, was paired with Holley’s Avenger multiport electronic fuel injection system. The Avenger system is a plug-and-play solution that features self-tuning capabilities, making it one of the most user-friendly fuel injection upgrades on the market.

To maintain the truck’s vintage aesthetic, Holley designed Big Block LS coil covers that conceal the LS3’s ignition coils. These covers give the engine a nostalgic look, reminiscent of the classic big-block engines of the past, while still housing modern performance technology.

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Collaboration with SoCal Speed Shop

To bring this vision to life, Tomlinson enlisted the expertise of SoCal Speed Shop in Pomona, California. Led by renowned car builder Jimmy Shine, the team at SoCal worked closely with Holley to create a blueprint for the C-10. The goal was to build a vintage-looking shop truck that could deliver modern performance and handling.

The project began with a complete disassembly of the truck, down to its frame. The frame was sandblasted, reinforced, and powder-coated to ensure durability and longevity. This meticulous preparation was essential to accommodate the new drivetrain and suspension components.

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Modern Drivetrain and Transmission

The LS3 engine was paired with a Tremec TKO-600 five-speed manual transmission, a combination that delivers both power and precision. However, integrating this modern drivetrain into the vintage C-10 required significant modifications. SoCal Speed Shop fabricated a new transmission tunnel to accommodate the floor-mounted Hurst shifter and ensure proper clearance for the one-piece driveshaft.

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To achieve the desired stance, the truck was lowered by five inches in the front and six inches in the rear. This was accomplished using aftermarket upper and lower control arms, performance coil springs, and shock absorbers. The result is a truck that not only looks aggressive but also handles like a sports car.

Exhaust System and Performance Tuning

The exhaust system was another critical component of the build. SoCal Speed Shop custom-fabricated a set of Hooker headers specifically designed for the LS3 engine swap. These headers feed into a 3-inch dual exhaust system equipped with Hooker Aero Chamber mufflers, giving the C-10 a deep, performance-oriented exhaust note.

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Holley’s Avenger EFI system, with its self-learning computer, was strategically placed behind the glove box to protect it from engine heat and moisture. This system ensures optimal performance without the need for constant tuning, making it ideal for both casual drivers and performance enthusiasts.

Suspension and Braking Upgrades

The suspension system underwent extensive modifications to enhance the truck’s handling and stability. Classic Performance Products supplied new upper and lower control arms, while performance coil springs, shocks, and anti-sway bars were installed to improve ride quality and cornering capabilities.

Braking performance was also a priority. Baer brakes were installed on both the front and rear axles, providing the C-10 with exceptional stopping power. This upgrade is crucial for a vehicle with the performance potential of the LS3-powered C-10.

Interior and Exterior: Staying True to the Original

Despite the extensive mechanical upgrades, the interior of the C-10 remains largely unchanged. The factory vinyl seats, dashboard, and instrument panel have been preserved, maintaining the truck’s original charm. The only noticeable modifications are the Hurst shifter and a small SoCal Speed Shop logo on the glove box.

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Externally, the truck retains its classic appearance. The factory hood, cab, and grille remain intact, and Tomlinson opted against popular modifications such as shaving door handles or adding a billet grille. This decision ensures that the C-10 stays true to its roots while showcasing the potential of modern performance upgrades.

Showcasing the Build: Events and Competitions

Since its completion, the Holley LS3-powered C-10 has been a star at numerous automotive events. It made its debut at Holley’s LS Festival, where it competed in drag racing, autocross, and other performance challenges. The truck also participated in the Hot Rod Power Tour and the Optima Ultimate Street Car Invitational, demonstrating its versatility and performance capabilities.

Most recently, the C-10 was showcased at the 2010 SEMA show in Las Vegas, where it garnered significant attention from enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. With plans to appear at more events across the country, this build continues to inspire and impress.

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Conclusion: A Perfect Blend of Old and New

The 1967 Chevrolet C-10 build by Holley Performance and SoCal Speed Shop is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic trucks. By combining vintage aesthetics with modern performance technology, this project demonstrates the potential of blending old and new. Whether you’re a fan of classic trucks, performance upgrades, or automotive innovation, the Holley LS3-powered C-10 is a build worth celebrating.

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