1987 Chevy Truck For Sale Craigslist: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding a Square Body Gem sale.truckstrend.com
The roar of a classic V8 engine, the distinct lines of a bygone era, and the undeniable appeal of American steel – for many, the 1987 Chevy truck embodies all of this and more. As the final year of the iconic "square body" C/K series (or R/V series, as it was officially rebranded for 1987 alongside the new GMT400 platform), the 1987 Chevrolet truck holds a unique place in automotive history. It combines the beloved vintage aesthetic with the dawn of modern fuel injection (TBI), making it a highly sought-after vehicle for enthusiasts, project seekers, and those simply looking for a reliable, no-nonsense workhorse.
In the vast digital marketplace, Craigslist stands out as a prime hunting ground for these classic pickups. Its localized nature, direct seller-to-buyer interaction, and often lower fees compared to dedicated auto sites make it a popular choice. However, navigating Craigslist for a 1987 Chevy truck requires a keen eye, a bit of patience, and a solid understanding of what to look for. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently search, evaluate, and ultimately acquire your very own piece of Chevrolet history.
1987 Chevy Truck For Sale Craigslist: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding a Square Body Gem
Why the 1987 Chevy Truck Stands Out
The 1987 Chevrolet truck is a true transitional model, making it particularly interesting to collectors and practical users alike. While its body style remained the familiar "square body" introduced in 1973, it received significant mechanical updates. Most notably, 1987 saw the introduction of Throttle Body Injection (TBI) across the engine lineup, replacing carburetors. This brought improved cold starts, better fuel efficiency (for its time), and enhanced reliability, making it a more user-friendly classic than earlier carbureted models.
Beyond the mechanics, the 1987 models retain the timeless, rugged aesthetic that has made square bodies legendary. Their simple, boxy lines are easily customized, from lifted off-road beasts to slammed street cruisers. Parts availability is excellent due to their long production run and popularity, and their relatively straightforward mechanical design means many repairs can be tackled by a home mechanic. Whether you’re seeking a daily driver, a restoration project, or a weekend show truck, the 1987 Chevy offers a versatile and rewarding ownership experience.
Navigating Craigslist: Your Digital Hunting Ground
Craigslist’s strength lies in its simplicity, but this also means you need to be strategic in your search. Here’s how to maximize your chances of finding a good deal:
- Refined Search Terms: Don’t just type "1987 Chevy Truck." Try variations like:
- "1987 Chevrolet Pickup"
- "87 Chevy C10" (for 2WD half-ton)
- "87 Chevy K10" (for 4WD half-ton)
- "87 Square Body"
- "Chevy Truck 350" (if you’re looking for a specific engine)
- "Project Truck 1987 Chevy" (if you’re open to repairs)
- Location, Location, Location: Craigslist is highly localized. Expand your search radius beyond your immediate area if you’re willing to travel. Many excellent deals are found a few hours away. Use the "search nearby areas" feature or try searching directly in neighboring cities.
- Frequency and Freshness: New listings appear constantly. Check Craigslist multiple times a day, especially during peak posting times (evenings and weekends), to snag the best deals before others.
- Filter Wisely: Utilize price filters to narrow down results to your budget. While Craigslist lacks advanced filters for year/make/model, using specific keywords compensates for this.
- Beware of Scams: Be cautious of listings with vague descriptions, generic photos (especially stock photos or images that don’t match the description), or overly low prices for what appears to be a perfect truck. Always insist on seeing the vehicle in person before discussing payment or personal details. Never send money before seeing the truck and verifying ownership.
What to Look For: An Essential Inspection Checklist
Once you’ve found a promising listing, it’s time for an in-person inspection. Bring a friend, a flashlight, and a magnet (for checking body filler).
1. The Frame and Undercarriage (Critical!)
- Rust: This is the ultimate deal-breaker. Check frame rails, crossmembers, body mounts, and suspension components for excessive rust, especially in snow-belt states. Surface rust is common; rot that compromises structural integrity is not.
- Previous Damage: Look for kinks, bends, or poor repairs to the frame that indicate a past accident.
2. Body and Exterior
- Common Rust Spots: Pay close attention to cab corners, rocker panels, fender wells, bed floor, tailgate, and door bottoms.
- Body Panels: Check for consistent gaps between panels, signs of Bondo (use your magnet), and mismatched paint, which can indicate previous accidents or poor bodywork.
- Glass and Lights: Ensure all glass is intact, and headlights, taillights, and turn signals are operational.
- Tires: Check tread depth and look for uneven wear, which could signal alignment issues.
3. Engine and Drivetrain
- Cold Start: Ideally, you want to see the truck started from cold. Listen for knocking, ticking, or excessive smoke from the exhaust. Blue smoke indicates oil burning; black smoke indicates a rich fuel mixture; white smoke could be coolant.
- Fluids: Check oil (should be clean, not milky or sludgy), transmission fluid (red, not burnt-smelling or brown), and coolant levels.
- Leaks: Look for oil, transmission, power steering, or coolant leaks under the truck.
- Transmission: For automatics, check that it shifts smoothly through all gears without hesitation or hard clunks. For manuals, ensure the clutch engages smoothly and gears don’t grind.
- Brakes: Test the brakes for firmness and listen for grinding or squealing.
4. Interior and Electrical
- Dashpad and Seats: These are prone to cracking and tearing. Factor in replacement costs.
- Gauges: Ensure all gauges (speedometer, odometer, fuel, temp, oil pressure) are working.
- HVAC: Test the heater and air conditioning.
- Electrical: Check all power windows, locks, radio, wipers, and interior lights. Wiring issues can be notoriously difficult to track down.
5. Test Drive
- Listen: Pay attention to any unusual noises – clunks, squeaks, grinding, or humming – especially when going over bumps or turning.
- Steering: Should be responsive without excessive play.
- Alignment: Does it pull to one side?
- Braking: Does it stop straight and without pulsation?
6. Documentation
- Absolutely essential. Ensure the seller has a clear, transferable title in their name. Verify the VIN on the title matches the truck’s VIN (usually on the dash and door jamb). Avoid trucks without titles.
- Bill of Sale: Prepare a basic bill of sale even for private party transactions.
Understanding Condition and Pricing
The price of a 1987 Chevy truck on Craigslist varies wildly based on its condition, location, and specific configuration (2WD vs. 4WD, engine, body style).
- "Parts Truck" or "Project": These are typically non-running or require significant structural/mechanical work. Often under $2,000.
- "Driver Quality": Runs and drives, but has cosmetic flaws, minor mechanical issues, or significant rust. Can range from $2,000 – $6,000.
- "Good Condition": Runs well, minimal rust, decent paint, and interior. Might need some minor work. $6,000 – $12,000.
- "Excellent/Show Quality": Professionally restored or very well-preserved original. Rare on Craigslist, but can fetch $12,000+. Highly desirable configurations (e.g., short bed, 4×4, original V8) will command higher prices.
Negotiation and Closing the Deal
- Be Prepared to Walk Away: This is your strongest negotiating tool. Don’t fall in love with the first truck you see.
- Point Out Flaws: Use any issues you found during inspection as leverage for a lower price.
- Have Cash Ready: Cash is king in private sales and can often secure a better deal.
- Discuss Paperwork: Ensure the seller understands the title transfer process in your state.
- Final Inspection: Give the truck one last quick once-over before handing over payment.
Common Challenges and Solutions
While generally reliable, 1987 Chevy trucks can present some common issues:
- Rust: The biggest enemy. Solutions range from patch panels for minor spots to extensive bodywork or even cab/bed swaps for severe cases. Specialty fabrication shops can help.
- TBI System Quirks: While an improvement over carbs, the TBI unit, sensors (O2, MAP, TPS), and fuel pump can fail. These are generally inexpensive and easy to replace, often improving performance dramatically.
- Electrical Gremlins: Aging wiring can lead to intermittent issues with lights, gauges, or accessories. A good wiring diagram and patience are your best friends. Many online forums offer detailed troubleshooting guides.
- Aging Suspension Components: Bushings, shocks, and ball joints wear out. These are standard maintenance items and readily available.
- Parts Availability: Fortunately, the aftermarket for square body trucks is enormous. You can find almost any part, from reproduction body panels to complete interior kits, from major retailers, online specialists, and even junkyards.
Estimated Price Guide for 1987 Chevy Trucks on Craigslist
This table provides a general range; actual prices will vary based on specific engine (e.g., 305 vs. 350 V8), transmission (manual vs. automatic), options, and regional demand.
| Condition Category | Description | Estimated Price Range (USD) | Key Factors Influencing Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parts/Project | Non-running, major mechanical issues, severe rust, extensive body damage. Requires significant restoration or is suitable only for parts. | $500 – $2,500 | Engine status (seized/running), frame integrity, completeness of parts, availability of title. |
| Driver Quality (2WD) | Runs and drives, but has noticeable rust, faded paint, worn interior, minor mechanical issues (e.g., small leaks, worn suspension). | $2,500 – $7,000 | Engine health (V6 vs. V8), transmission function, overall rust severity, tire condition, basic functionality of lights/gauges. |
| Driver Quality (4WD) | Same as 2WD driver quality, but with functional 4×4 system. | $4,000 – $9,000 | Functionality of 4×4, transfer case condition, lift/tire upgrades (if applicable), typical 4×4 wear and tear. |
| Good Condition (2WD) | Reliable runner, minimal rust (surface only), decent paint (original or older repaint), solid interior, all major systems functional. | $7,000 – $13,000 | Engine (350 V8 commands more), transmission smoothness, short bed vs. long bed, desirable options (A/C, power windows/locks). |
| Good Condition (4WD) | Similar to 2WD good condition, but with fully functional 4×4. | $9,000 – $16,000 | Originality vs. tasteful modifications, condition of drivetrain components, common upgrades (lift kits, wheels), interior upgrades. |
| Excellent/Show Quality | Near-flawless paint, rust-free body, restored or immaculate interior, strong mechanicals, potentially numbers-matching. Rare on Craigslist. | $16,000 – $30,000+ | Level of restoration, originality, rare options, engine/transmission rebuild status, overall presentation. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the 1987 Chevy truck considered a "square body"?
A1: Yes, absolutely. The 1987 model year was the final year for the iconic "square body" C/K series design (though it was rebadged as the R/V series alongside the new GMT400 platform). It retains all the classic lines and characteristics of the 1973-1986 models.
Q2: What engines were available in the 1987 Chevy truck?
A2: The most common engines were the 4.3L V6, 5.0L (305 ci) V8, and 5.7L (350 ci) V8. All gasoline engines in 1987 featured Throttle Body Injection (TBI). A 6.2L Diesel V8 was also an option, though less common.
Q3: Are parts hard to find for a 1987 Chevy truck?
A3: No, quite the opposite! Due to the immense popularity and long production run of the square body platform, parts availability is excellent. You can find almost any mechanical, body, or interior part new from aftermarket suppliers, and used parts are plentiful at salvage yards.
Q4: What’s the difference between the C/K and R/V series for 1987?
A4: For the 1987 model year, Chevrolet introduced the new GMT400 platform (the "OBS" or Old Body Style trucks). To avoid confusion, the outgoing square body trucks were re-designated as the "R" series (2WD) and "V" series (4WD) for their final years of production (1987-1991 for some heavy-duty models), while the new GMT400 trucks took over the C/K nomenclature. When searching Craigslist, most people still refer to the 1987 square body as a "C10" or "K10" informally.
Q5: Should I buy a 2WD or 4WD 1987 Chevy truck?
A5: This depends on your intended use. 2WD (C-series/R-series) models are generally lighter, more fuel-efficient, and often cheaper to maintain. They are great for street driving, hauling, or as a classic cruiser. 4WD (K-series/V-series) models offer off-road capability and better traction in adverse weather, but they are typically more expensive, heavier, and have more complex drivetrain components to maintain.
Q6: How can I avoid scams on Craigslist when buying a truck?
A6: Always insist on seeing the truck in person. Be wary of listings with generic photos, overly vague descriptions, or prices that seem too good to be true. Never send money or personal information before inspecting the vehicle and verifying the seller’s identity and clear title. Bring a friend, meet in a public place, and trust your gut.
Conclusion
The 1987 Chevy truck, with its classic square body aesthetic and modern TBI reliability, represents a sweet spot in the world of vintage pickups. Craigslist offers a direct and often cost-effective avenue to find these beloved machines. By understanding what makes these trucks special, knowing how to navigate the Craigslist landscape, performing a thorough inspection, and being prepared for common challenges, you can significantly increase your chances of finding a true gem. Whether you’re looking for a dependable daily driver, a weekend project, or a show-stopping restoration, the journey to finding your 1987 Chevy truck on Craigslist promises to be an exciting one. Happy hunting!
