Towing question

[6863m]

I am in the process of completing a 62 C 10 restoration and when I get done I would like to do a C-20 72 through 87. I would intend just to use the truck for towing a trailer and car carrier and not as a daily driver so gas milage really does not come into it.

My question is whether it makes a difference whether it is a short bed or a long bed. I don't plan on putting a camper in it so the short bed works for that and I like the looks much better. Also there might be more choices in a long bed for a 3/4 ton.

I hope my question is clear.

[78 Chevyrado]

3/4 tons only came stock as longbeds, so if you find a shortbed 3/4 ton, it's custom and will probably cost more. if you do find a shortbed 3/4 ton, make sure they shortened it properly (good welds, quality of work)


Generally for towing, a longer tow vehicle is more stable, but I've never had a problem towing with a shortbed, I only hear of problems from SOME people with blazers and smaller trucks.

for towing, a 454 is better in every way except gas mileage, but you have to pay more to get it. If you dont tow all the time but only use the truck for that, a 350 would be fine.

Hope that helps.

[Adams74Chevy]

My dad used my '74 K20 for 20 years or so hauling horses and many other things. There are many times I'm sure he was over the weight limit, but never once did he ever have any issues hauling...ok it wasn't the fastest but it's geared to pull like a tank. Short beds look nice but as 78 Chevyrado says they didn't make 3/4T short beds so I'd stick with a long bed rather than hope someone's shortbed redo was quality work or not. YMMV

[6863m]

Thanks for the response, that makes it real simple. I already have a 2004GMC 1500 short bed with a 5.7 engine so I will go with the long bed.