First generation 1960–1966
First generation
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| Also called | C10/K10
C15/K15
C20/K20
C30 |
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| Production | 1960–1966 |
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| Engine | 230 in (3.8 L) I6
236 in (3.9 L) I6250 in (4.1 L) I6261 in (4.3 L) I6292 in (4.8 L) I6305 in (5.0 L) V6283 in (4.6 L) V8
327 in (5.4 L) V8 |
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| Transmission | 3-speed synchromesh
4-speed syncromesh
2-speed Powerglide |
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| Wheelbase | 115 in (2,921 mm) (short box)
127 in (3,226 mm) (long box) |
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The 1960 model year introduced a new body style of light pick-up truck that featured many firsts. Most important of these were a drop-center ladder frame, allowing the cab to sit lower, and independent front suspension, giving an almost car-like ride in a truck. Also new for 1960 was a new designation system for trucks made by GM. Gone was the 3100, 3200, and 3600 designations for short 1/2, long 1/2 and 3/4-ton models. Instead, a new scheme would assign a 10, 20, or 30 for 1/2, 3/4, and 1-ton models. Since 1957, trucks were available from the factory as 4-wheel drive, and the new class scheme would make this known. A C (Conventional) in front of the series number would indicate 2-wheel rear drive while a K would denote 4-wheel drive. Actual badging on trucks still carried the series name system from the previous generation. The 10, 20, and 30 series (C or K) were badged as "Apache 10", etc. 40, 50, and 60 series trucks were badged as "Viking 40", and the largest 70, 80, and 90 series models were marked "Spartan 70" etc. in 1960, C/K trucks were available in smooth "Fleetside" or fendered "Stepside" versions. GMC called these "Wideside" and "Fenderside." Half-ton models were the C10 and K10 short-bed trucks, and C15 and K15 long-bed trucks. The 3/4-ton C20 and K20, as well as the one-ton C30, were also available. GMC did not use the "C" nomenclature, though their 4x4 versions had the "K" designation. The 1962 model used torsion bar front suspension, with trailing arm suspension rear. Trim lines were base and "Custom." Engines included the base GMC 305 in V6 for the GMC version, 135 hp (101 kW) 236 in (3.9 L) and 150 hp (112 kW) 261 in (4.3 L) straight-6s, and a 283 in (4.6 L) V8 with 185 hp (119 kW).
A coil-spring front suspension came in 1963; along with a new base engine, a 140 hp (104 kW) 230 in³ (3.8 L) I6, and an optional 165 hp (123 kW) 292 in (4.8 L) I6. The cab was changed for 1964, with elimination of the "wraparound" windshield and a new front grille design, along with various interior changes. Air conditioning and a 220 hp (164 kW) 327 in (5.4 L) V8 came in 1965. A new base engine finished the model in 1966 with a 155 hp (116 kW) 250 in (4.1 L) I6.
