Trick Truck: 1989 GMC Top Kick C7000 Custom Pickup – Sold?
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November 14, 2023, Update – We confirmed the listing for this “ClassiFIND” expired, so with no replacement found, we’re assuming this ride is “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.
Ever heard of the GMC Top Kick? Most people not familiar with commercial trucks have. The irony is that while most people don’t know anything about these trucks, they are exposed to them just about every time they are on the road. Look around as you drive, and you’re sure to find these workhorses in the form of Box Trucks, Garbage Trucks, and other commercial vehicles.
While GMC’s Top Kick used the basic cab from the company’s light-duty pickup truck line, that’s where the similarities end. However, using that basic cab means customizers, with some innovative engineering, can fit a light-duty pickup bed for a very custom truck never offered by GMC.
This 1989 GMC Top Kick C7000 for sale, last spotted in October 2023 on Craigslist in St. Petersburg, Florida (Tampa), is a prime example. What started out as a ubiquitous box truck ended up having its frame shortened and strengthened to accommodate a GMC “dually” bed. The result is a one-of-a-kind custom pickup featuring a stout Caterpillar 3208, 10.4 Liter, 210 horsepower engine mated to an Eaton-Fuller six-speed manual transmission. A nice touch is that the factory air conditioning system still operates. Offered for $13,000, the seller’s detailed description indicates much of this truck’s suspension and brake components have been serviced.
In the annals of American heavy-duty trucks, the 1989 GMC TopKick C7000 stands tall as a symbol of reliability, power, and versatility. Introduced as a part of the GMC lineup in the late 1980s, the TopKick C7000 quickly gained a reputation as a workhorse that could handle the toughest tasks with ease. This iconic truck left a lasting impression on the industry and the roads and job sites where it proved its mettle.
The 1989 GMC TopKick C7000 was part of the second generation of TopKick trucks produced by General Motors (GM). It succeeded the first-generation TopKick series, which had already made a name for itself in the commercial truck market. When the second generation was introduced in 1987, it brought with it many improvements and updates that solidified TopKick’s position as a formidable contender in the medium-duty truck segment.
The heart of the 1989 GMC TopKick C7000 was its robust engine options. Buyers could choose from several powerful engines, including V8 and V6 gasoline engines or diesel powerplants. The most notable engine option was the 210-horsepower Caterpillar 10.4L Caterpillar 3208T Diesel. This engine generated ample torque, making it perfect for hauling heavy loads. The TopKick C7000’s engines were mated to manual or automatic transmissions, offering flexibility for various applications.
The TopKick C7000 featured a durable ladder-type frame that provided excellent structural integrity. This robust chassis was engineered to withstand the rigors of demanding work environments. Its front suspension consisted of parabolic leaf springs, while the rear suspension featured multi-leaf springs. This combination ensured a comfortable and stable ride even when carrying substantial payloads.
The cab of the 1989 TopKick C7000 was designed with functionality in mind. It provided the driver with a spacious and ergonomic environment, with easy-to-reach controls and excellent visibility. The truck’s interior was utilitarian but comfortable, making long work days more manageable. The TopKick C7000 also offered various options and configurations, allowing buyers to tailor the cab to their specific needs.
Payload and Towing Capacity: One of the standout features of the 1989 GMC TopKick C7000 was its exceptional payload and towing capacity. With a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of up to 30,000 pounds, it could handle various tasks, from delivering goods to towing heavy equipment. Its versatility made it a favorite among construction, transportation, and agriculture businesses.
The 1989 GMC TopKick C7000 left an indelible mark on the commercial truck industry and remains remembered for several reasons.
First was its durability. The TopKick C7000 was built to last. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensured that it could withstand the punishment of daily use and challenging working conditions. Many TopKick C7000 trucks from 1989 are still operating today, a testament to their durability and longevity.
Second was its versatility. Whether it was used as a flatbed, dump truck, box truck, or utility vehicle, the TopKick C7000 proved its versatility. Its ability to adapt to various roles made it a valuable asset for businesses of all kinds.
Third was reliability. The TopKick C7000 gained a reputation for reliability that endures to this day. Owners and operators could depend on it to start up in the coldest winters and perform flawlessly when tasked with heavy-duty jobs. This dependability made it a trusted companion on job sites across the nation.
Fourth was resilience. The TopKick C7000’s resilience was not only about its mechanical prowess but also its ability to evolve with the times. Even as newer generations of TopKick trucks were introduced, the 1989 model remained a sought-after choice for those needing a dependable workhorse.
The 1989 GMC TopKick C7000 is a classic example of American engineering at its finest. Its powerful engines, rugged construction, and unwavering reliability cemented its place in the hearts of truck enthusiasts and the trucking industry as a whole. While it may have been produced over three decades ago, its legacy lives on through the many units that are still on the road today, proving that the TopKick C7000 was more than just a truck; it was a symbol of excellence in the world of medium-duty trucks.
The Todd Robbins YouTube Channel, which we believe was created by the seller/builder of this custom truck, documented the build in this video:
If you dare to be different and want to drive an attention-getting truck, then this custom 1989 GMC Top Kick C700 custom dually pickup for sale might be for you. Watching the video confirms this is a well-built conversion with working factory A/C.
If you are serious about buying this Top Kick custom dually pickup, you can start the conversation by using the contact information provided by the seller in their Craigslist ad. When you connect, please mention that you saw their converted GMC box truck featured here on GuysWithRides.com. Good luck with the purchase!
Here’s the seller’s description:
Leave me a voicemail if I do not answer
I WILL NOT RESPOND TO TEXT MESSAGES OR CRAIGSLIST-GENERATED EMAILS
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED OR HAVE ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS, CALL THE NUMBER LISTED ABOVE.
This is a 1989 GMC C7000 “pickup” truck
The truck is a Class 7 GMC Top Kick that has been shortened and fitted with a dually bed
It has a 10.4L Caterpillar 3208T diesel engine and a Eaton-Fuller six speed manual transmission
The first gear is 9.00 to 1.00 (granny), and sixth gear is 1.00 to 1.00
All forward gears are synchronized (including first gear)
The rear end ratio is 4.33 and does about 72 mph at 2500rpm (it is governed at 2500rpm)
It has power steering, and the power hydraulic four-wheel disc brakes were recently serviced, having all rotors turned and a sticking caliper replaced
Almost everything in the front end has been replaced, including the kingpins
It has two 50-gallon step tanks, although the driver-side tank developed a leak and has been disconnected
The wheels are 22.5″ and the tires are in good condition, the front ones being only a few years old
The truck is equipped with factory air conditioning that works
Also equipped with the original in-dash radio, but an aftermarket radio has been installed to give the driver hands-free calling
It also has a backup camera
The truck currently has 174,546 miles on it, but it is my daily driver, so mileage will continue to increase
This truck is not a hack job, done by a backyard mechanic
It was built by Mike Powell, a professional diesel mechanic with 38 years of experience, who has spent the last 17 years building these trucks
You can see more of his work here: www.bigasstrux.com
This truck, on his web page: https://www.bigasstrux.com/89TopKickexRyder.html
If you enjoy riding around in your F250 or do not like getting attention, THIS IS NOT THE TRUCK FOR YOU!
Asking $13,000
For more information, please call (NO TEXTS, NO EMAILS)
Leave me a voicemail if I do not answer
If the ad is still here, I still have it!”
Work or play: What would you use this 1989 GMC Top Kick C7000 Custom Pickup for sale for? Please comment below and let us know!
You know what they say about guys with big trucks.