1986 GMC C1500 Sierra Classic
Regular Cab Short Box Pickup
- Alabama Truck
- Restored in Gray with White Top (PPG ME/YW6)
- All New Black Bench Interior with Dakota Digital Gauge Cluster
- Custom Front Bumper, Cut and Tucked
- Rebuilt LS 5.3L V8
- Rebuilt 4L60 4 Speed Automatic Transmission
- Holley Oil Pan
- New Holley Mid-Mount Accessory Drive
- Hooker Headers
- Custom Built Driveshaft with Posi Rear End
- Power Steering and Power Brakes with Front Discs
- Vintage AC System
- Custom Audio Sound Stereo with Bluetooh
- Dual Exhaust
- Belle Tech Lowering Kit
- Rear Roll Pan
- US Mag Wheels with Yokohama Tires
- New Fuel Tank
- Only 378 Miles Recorded Since Restored
- Rust Free, Southern Short Box
The 1986 GMC C1500 Sierra Classic Regular Cab Short Box is a fantastic example of the classic square-body pickup, combining timeless GMC styling with a thoughtfully executed RestoMod build. Originally an Alabama truck, this C1500 retains the desirable rust-free character associated with its Southern provenance while benefiting from a comprehensive restoration. Finished in an attractive gray with a contrasting white top, the exterior was refinished in PPG ME/YW6, giving this short-box pickup a clean and period-inspired appearance with a modern level of presentation.
The exterior has been enhanced with a number of subtle custom touches that complement the factory design rather than overwhelm it. A custom front bumper has been cut and tucked for a cleaner, more streamlined look, while the rear features a custom roll pan that further tightens the truck's appearance. The truck sits on a Belltech lowering kit, giving the C1500 a more aggressive stance without sacrificing its classic proportions. US Mag wheels wrapped in Yokohama tires complete the look, while a new fuel tank adds another layer of reliability to this carefully finished build.
Inside, the original cabin has been transformed with an all-new black bench-seat interior that preserves the character of the regular-cab pickup while providing a fresh, comfortable environment. A Dakota Digital gauge cluster brings modern instrumentation to the classic dashboard, offering crisp and easy-to-read displays while maintaining a cohesive appearance. The truck is also equipped with a custom audio stereo featuring Bluetooth connectivity, allowing modern music and hands-free functionality without detracting from the vintage character of the cabin.
Power comes from a rebuilt LS-based 5.3L V8, providing a significant performance upgrade while retaining the familiar simplicity and compact dimensions that make the LS platform so popular. The engine is equipped with a Holley oil pan, a new Holley mid-mount accessory drive, and Hooker headers, while custom dual exhaust gives the truck an appropriate V8 soundtrack. Behind the engine is a rebuilt 4L60 four-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth cruising and an additional overdrive gear for highway use.
The chassis and drivetrain have received equal attention. Power steering and power brakes with front disc brakes provide improved drivability and stopping performance, while a custom-built driveshaft connects the transmission to the rear axle. The rear end features a Posi differential, adding traction and making better use of the upgraded V8's power. Vintage-style air conditioning provides welcome comfort, making this GMC considerably more enjoyable to drive than a stock 1980s pickup while retaining the character that makes these trucks so appealing.
With only 378 miles recorded since its restoration, this rust-free Southern short box presents as a highly desirable combination of classic GMC design and modern performance. The gray-and-white exterior, black bench interior, lowered stance, US Mag wheels, LS V8, overdrive automatic transmission, and carefully selected chassis upgrades give this Sierra Classic an appealing balance of style, comfort, and performance. For enthusiasts who appreciate the unmistakable look of a square-body GMC but want the drivability and reliability of a modernized powertrain, this C1500 is an exceptionally well-rounded example.
