History of Chevrolet K10
The Chevrolet K10 stands as a true icon of American toughness and versatility. As part of Chevrolet's legendary C/K truck lineup, the K10 earned its reputation as a dependable workhorse, capable of handling everything from off-road trails to job site tasks - all while turning heads with its classic styling.
Built for Adventure
The Chevrolet K10 debuted as part of the revolutionary C/K truck series in the early 1960s. While the K10 nameplate officially appeared in 1962, the 1960 and 1961 models were branded as Apache
trucks and featured a distinctive pig nose
hood design. This first-generation C/K series (1960-1966), affectionately dubbed Hamburger Trucks
by enthusiasts, introduced unique body-side styling and engineering that laid the groundwork for Chevrolet's four-wheel-drive lineup.
Designed as a half-ton, four-wheel-drive truck, the K10 was perfect for drivers who needed a capable vehicle both on and off the road. Its rugged construction and go-anywhere capability made it a favorite among farmers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who valued versatility.
The first generation (1960-1966) introduced an innovative drop-center ladder frame, which delivered superior ride quality compared to most trucks of its time. By the second generation (1967-1972), Chevrolet elevated the K10's styling, powertrains, and off-road performance, producing what many enthusiasts consider some of the most beautiful and functional trucks ever built. Known as the Action Line,
these models featured muscular designs, improved interiors, and enhanced off-road capabilities, making them equally suited for work and play.
The Square Body Era
The third generation (1973-1987) marked the debut of Chevrolet's iconic Square Body
design, a name affectionately given by enthusiasts despite GM's official Rounded Line
designation. These trucks embraced sharper, angular styling and improved aerodynamics while emphasizing versatility and functionality.
K10 trucks of this era became the go-to choice for drivers who demanded exceptional off-road performance. With features like locking hubs, heavy-duty suspension systems, and a broad selection of powerful small- and big-block engines, the K10 excelled in both rugged terrain and challenging weather conditions.
Configurations ranged from short-bed models offering agility and maneuverability to long-bed versions designed for increased hauling capacity, ensuring the K10 could meet a wide array of needs.
An American Off-Road Icon
The Chevrolet K10 remains one of the most beloved classic trucks, celebrated for its versatility, style, and capability. Whether you're restoring a stock short-bed K10 or upgrading your 4x4 with modern components, this truck's legacy continues to inspire enthusiasts across generations.
With millions of K10s built during its production run and thousands still in use today, it's clear that this truck's reputation for rugged dependability is well-earned. Original Parts Group is proud to support your K10 restoration or upgrade with a comprehensive selection of high-quality parts and accessories, ensuring the legacy of this legendary truck lives on.