If you are shopping a Chevrolet C10 to build, the first real fork is generation: 1967–1972 or 1973–1987 squarebody. Both are C10s. They are not the same truck.
1967–1972 C10
The 67–72 is the poster truck. Short cab, tight greenhouse, the profile everyone already knows from magazine covers. Aftermarket support is deep: chassis, air ride, disc brakes, LS mounts, glass, trim. Bodies are getting expensive, and rust in the cabs and beds is the tax you pay for popularity.
Build one if you want the classic C10 silhouette and you are willing to pay for metal that is already getting scarce.
1973–1987 squarebody
Squarebodies are still easier to find in the wild. The cab is bigger, the lines are boxier, and the aftermarket has finally caught up — chassis, bags, four-links, LS swaps, the whole list. A 73–80 and an 81–87 are not identical, especially up front, so buy the year you actually want instead of “a squarebody.”
Build one if you want a truck you can sit in, a larger parts pool, or a look that is having a moment without 67–72 money.
What actually matters
- Rust beats paint every time. Cab corners, rockers, and beds will decide the budget.
- Shortbed vs longbed changes the stance more than most people admit.
- Chassis and power are generation-agnostic. A good shop can LS-swap and bag either one.
- Resale still favors a clean 67–72 shortbed. Driving daily often favors a squarebody.
Ktech Speedshop builds both. If you are stuck between years, send photos of the truck you have — or the one you are about to buy. We will tell you if it is a build or a boat anchor.
Ready to talk about a truck? Send a build inquiry.