With classic Pickups remaining incredibly popular in the market, finding a rock-solid example is becoming more difficult. This is especially true for those featuring a V8 under the hood. Those searching may have struck gold with this 1969 Chevrolet CST/10 Stepside. It is a structurally sound Pickup with a small-block under the hood. Its engine features sensible upgrades that will significantly lift its performance and towing abilities. The winning bidder could perform a cosmetic refresh, although this could happen when (or if) they felt it was necessary. It has been part of the same family since Day One but needs to find a new home to finalize an estate. Therefore, the owner has listed it exclusively with us at Barn Finds Auctions.

Chevrolet introduced its Second Generation C/K truck series in 1967, with vehicles remaining available until 1972. This CST rolled off the line in 1969, with its original owner ordering it in dazzling Red. It has been garage-kept when not prowling the streets, making its rust-free status unsurprising. It comes with the Connecticut title from its last visit to the DMV in 1980. The paint has deteriorated, and there are signs of prior repairs and repainting. However, it remains very presentable in its current form. The panels are as straight as an arrow, while the hinged aluminum bed cover provides security and protection for the wood and steel beneath. This is bolted into place but is removable if the winning bidder wishes to pursue a different path. The trim and glass look excellent, and the aftermarket wheels add an aggressive look to a Pickup with power to burn. The seller includes a bed full of parts, including a selection of steel wheels. Some of these are Kelsey Hayes items, which are a desirable find.

The original owner ordered this CST/10 with the optional 350ci V8 under the hood. It retains its small-block, but it has been breathed on to produce more than the 250hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque available when it rolled off the lot. These include a set of “3932454” cylinder heads, a Crane Camshaft, solid lifters, and an MSD ignition. The V8 breathes deeply through a 4-barrel Quadraject carburetor, exhaling through a Borla dual stainless exhaust with copper downpipes. The owner says it sounds and runs exceptionally well, which are claims I find easily believable. There’s no point having plenty of power on tap if you can’t use it. This Chevy shouldn’t have any issues because the rest of the drivetrain should be up to the task. Power feeds to a nickel-geared Brute Power four-speed T-10 on its way to a Posi rear end. There is no power assistance for the steering or upgraded front disc brakes, but the owner assures us it isn’t heavy to drive. This Pickup runs and drives perfectly, with no mechanical issues or problems. Confirming its overall good health is the owner’s claim they would have no hesitation in driving it anywhere. The vehicle has led a colorful past, serving as a tow vehicle for a family member’s race car. It performed that task admirably, and the mechanical upgrades mean it should utilize its tow hitch effectively for its new owner. The Stepside recently received new shocks, new tires, a new clutch, and fresh oil in June. The parts collection in the bed includes mechanical components and a selection of new parts to reinstate the original drum brakes if the winning bidder craves factory specifications.

The winning bidder doesn’t score air conditioning with this Pickup, but the sliding rear window allows flow-through ventilation that makes it unnecessary. The interior is tidy and serviceable, with no pressing needs or issues. The driver’s seat cover shows some deterioration, but the winning bidder could add a set of slip-on covers if they didn’t want to spend the money on replacement upholstery. The remaining Black vinyl looks excellent, as do the painted surfaces, carpet, dash, and pad. The driver’s door lock can be slightly tricky, the reversing lights are on a switch, and the column-mounted tach isn’t wired in. However, the new owner could tackle those tasks without spending cash on a specialist. Entertainment on the road is provided by a Pioneer radio/cassette player with door-mounted speakers.

This 1969 Chevrolet CST/10 Stepside offers its new owner a world of possibilities. It would benefit from a cosmetic refresh, but the generally presentable state and rust-free status means they could preserve it untouched for years. The bed cover offers security and protection, and the larger wheels hint at the performance potential offered by its upgraded V8. These classics also represent a solid long-term investment, meaning the new owner could enjoy all it offers, feeling fairly sure they could send it to a new home in a few years without losing money. If a classic Pickup has been on your radar, your search may have ended with this gem.

• Location: Torrington, Connecticut
• Mileage: 114,000 Miles
• Engine: 350ci V8
• Transmission: 4-Speed Manual
• VIN: CE149T822444
• Title Status: Clean