The 1960-1966 generation featured more modern designs, including a drop-center ladder frame allowing for lower cab profiles and integrated cab/bed options. Chevrolet’s C/K series offered various models, while GMC had unique V6 engines and a focus on commercial use. A more sophisticated suspension design provided a more car-like ride.
• 1960:
* For 1960, GMC introduced their own cast iron 305 V-6 engine. This dependable and powerful engine was GMC’s exclusive power plant until 1965, and it remained available until 1969.
* Both Chevrolet and GMC ½ and ¾ ton trucks featured torsion bar front suspension and coil spring rear suspension, providing a smoother ride compared to earlier straight axle systems. This design was reportedly changed to a more conventional coil spring front suspension in 1963 due to production costs.
* The cabs for both Chevrolet and GMC trucks produced between 1960-63 came from shared tooling but featured brand-specific dashboard designs.
* Chevrolet park light lenses used the same mold from 1960-66 and were initially clear.
* GMC park light lenses had a distinct “Cats-Eye” molding and differed from Chevrolet’s. The 1960-61 GMC lenses were unique from the 1962-66 style and were also clear.
* Chevrolet trucks from 1960-1966 did not offer chrome grilles. Deluxe models used a high-shine anodized aluminum grille.
* Chevrolet trucks from 1960-1966 were badged with names like “Apache” for light-duty models, “Viking” for medium-duty models, and “Spartan” for heavy-duty models.
• 1961: Chevrolet ½-ton wheels transitioned to a hubcap retention system using three raised spots on the center hub, reducing production costs compared to the previous spring clip method.
• 1962:
* The dual sealed beam headlight design used on 1958 GM trucks was replaced by a single headlight system on Chevrolet trucks. GMC continued using dual headlights through their 1972 series.
* The famous high oil pressure Chevrolet 235 six-cylinder engine (used in trucks since 1954) was largely discontinued at the end of the model year, with only 4×4 models retaining it through 1963.
* GMC park light lenses for 1962 were clear and represent a “one year only” style due to an upcoming federal regulation change.
• 1963:
* The 1963 model year saw the introduction of the alternator in Chevrolet trucks, replacing the cast iron generator.
* Federal regulations mandated a change from clear to amber park light lenses. This affected both Chevrolet (all lenses from 1960-66 now became amber) and GMC (the 1962 clear lens was replaced with amber).
* The cabs for both Chevrolet and GMC trucks produced between 1964-66 continued to come from shared tooling but retained brand-specific dashboard designs.
• 1964:
* For the 1964-66 model years, Chevrolet trucks adopted a flat windshield design.
* To reduce costs, the design of pickup rear bumper brackets changed from a forged design to stamped steel.
• 1965: In-dash factory air conditioning became available on new Chevrolet trucks.
• 1966: The 327 cubic inch V8 engine and the Turbo-Hydramatic (TH) transmission were introduced as new options.
• General Information (spanning multiple years):
* Throughout the 1955-69 period, only AM radio (non-push button) was available as a factory option.
* All pickup bed bottoms continued to be made of yellow pine with metal bed strips.
* The stepside bed design remained consistent between 1954 and 1987.
* Large back windows were an available option in truck cabs.
* Chevrolet referred to fendered beds as “Stepside” and smooth-sided beds as “Fleetside.” GMC used “Fenderside” and “Wideside” respectively.