1973 - 1987 Chevrolet Truck Specifications

Here are some drive train specs for 1973 - 1987 Chevy trucks. It is not 100% accurate for sure, it seems GM offered a lot of special order features over the years. This info was gathered from many sources. I know of no other source on the web with this info displayed as clearly, all in one place. Hope it helps!

[Chart showing break down of 1973 - 1978 Chevy Truck VIN#'s.]

From 1973 - 1980 Chevy trucks had a 13 digit VIN#. From 1981 - 1987 Chevy Trucks used a 17 digit VIN#. If your 1973 - 1987 body style has a VIN# located on the dashboard, with 17 digits, then it is between 1981 and 1987 model. If your truck has the VIN# on the dash, but it is not 17 digits, then it is a 1979 or 1981 model. From 1973 - 1978 Chevy Trucks had the VIN# on a plate, mounted to the driver's door jamb. Your VIN# can also be found on the factory options decal, located in the glove box. The decal lists all the RPO's (Regular Production Options) your truck came from the factory equipped with. If the 4th digit of your VIN # is a 4, then your truck is a "Heavy Half" ton, also known as a "Big 10".

1979-80 VIN#'s

1981- 1987 VIN#'s

Here's a list of engine specs. Meant to show what was available When, and in what models.

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Here's a list of transmissions offered, with available engines. Gear ratios are listed too...

[Chart showing transmissions used in 1973 - 1987 Chevy trucks. Includes gear ratios.]

and still working our way to the rear, here are the transfer cases, years available, combinations, and gear ratios too...

[Chart showing transfer cases used in 1973 - 1987 Chevy trucks, including gear ratios.]

Finally, what rear ends came in what models, and what ratios were available. Every engine/trans combo offered, is listed.

[Chart showing rear axles used in 1973 - 1987 Chevy trucks, including gear ratios.]

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