Description

1988 GMC R3500 Crew Cab (Camper Special) – An all-new clean sheet redesign of General Motors’ Chevrolet and GMC brand C/K-Series pickups debuted in mid-1972 for the 1973 model year. Development of the new third-generation trucks began in 1968 with vehicle components undergoing simulated testing on computers before the first prototype pickups were even built for real world testing. The redesign was revolutionary in appearance at the time, particularly the cab, departing from typical American pickup truck designs of the era. Aside from being near twins, the Chevrolet and GMC pickups looked like nothing else on the road. The third-generation trucks are colloquially known as the “Square-body” or “Box-body” generation. For the 1987 model year, the last model year for the conventional cab pickups, the Rounded-Line C/K-Series were renamed the R/V-Series. R-Series now designated two-wheel drive, while V-Series represented four-wheel drive. The name change is also found in the vehicle identification number. This was done in preparation for the next generation GMT400 trucks, which were produced concurrently with the older line. Along with the name change, came other major improvements and tweaks for the final model year of the conventional cab pickups. Single-point electronic throttle-body fuel injection (TBI) was introduced on GM’s full-size pickups, with new electric fuel pumps and high-pressure fuel lines. In addition, a “smart” powertrain control module (PCM) was also introduced, which controlled the fuel injection system, fuel-to-air burn ratio, engine ignition timing, and (if equipped with an automatic transmission) the Turbo Hydra-Matic’s turbine torque converter clutch.

We purchased this very original crew cab from its owner in CA owner last month. Besides having an original and solid body, what really drew us to own this GMC was its low (under 99k) miles. On top of that, the original 350 engine runs very strong and we wouldn’t hesitate to drive it anywhere. After the truck was transported to TX it received a new rear bumper, new chrome mirrors, new chrome side trim, and a high-end spray-in bedliner. We also recently installed a new radiator and performed a complete tune-up. The interior is very clean and it does have the common plastic cracks and seat rips expected of a 30 year old work truck. This 1 Ton would make a great work truck because it qualifies as a “classic” in almost every state. That saves you tons on registration, inspections, and most importantly insurance each year. The exterior has an older repaint and the only rust we found was a small hole by windshield trim and some small areas in bed now covered by bedliner. It’s a very straight and solid truck that would be a great donor for anyone looking to build a custom squarebody crew cab.  A complete list of options and features include; Crew Cab, 1 Ton, 350 V8 (5.7L) TBI, Auto, 2WD, Power Steering & Brakes, Chrome Front Bumper, Chrome Mirrors, Dash Mat, Vent Windows, Tinted Windows, AM/FM/CD, Owners Manual, Tire Tools, OEM Chevy 16″ Rims & Hubcaps, and thick LT235/85R16 Tires! We feel this is a lot of truck for only $12,900 but are always open to realistic offers. Not many other work trucks out there than be driven for a few years and then sold for a profit. Don’t let this one get away!