1973 GMC Sierra Grande

This 1973 GMC C25 Sierra Grande was manufactured in Fremont, California and was sold to its original owner on March 6, 1973 by Reynolds GMC Buick of West Covina, California. Fitted with the clamped-on bed shell shortly after purchase, additions include custom graphics added in the early 1980s, a CB radio, and a trailer brake system. Accompanied by documentation, invoices, and receipts dating back to new, equipment includes the towing package and power comes from a four-barrel-equipped 454ci big-block Chevrolet V8 mated to a Turbo-Hydramatic 3-speed. Finished in Mojave Tan and white over a Saddle Tan Herringbone cloth interior, this third-generation C25 is offered with a build sheet, owner’s manuals, the original purchase contract and key tag, and a clear Arizona title in the seller’s name.

The exterior finish is two-tone Mojave Tan and white, with custom stripes that were added during the early 1980s. The white camper shell was added to the bed shortly after the truck was originally purchased and is clamped in place as opposed to drilled. Glass is described as original and brightwork on the exterior is comprised of a chrome front bumper, stainless-steel tow mirrors, and a full-width stainless-steel tailgate panel. The rear features a heavy-duty steel bumper with an integrated tow receiver. Photos capturing exterior blemishes are available for viewing.

Factory white 16” steel wheels with GMC-branded chrome covers are mounted all around with Firestone tires that were replaced during the seller’s ownership period. This pickup was ordered with the towing package which included heavy-duty front springs, heavy-duty suspension dampers, a stabilizer bar, and 3.73:1 gearing. Handling is aided by both power steering and power brakes. The power steering box, drag link, and idler arm were also replaced under the seller’s tenure along with a front-end alignment.

The interior came with upgraded when new with Sierra Grande amenities and features Saddle Tan Herringbone upholstery which shows a few rips and tears. The instrument panel is accented in a faux woodgrain overlay on the driver’s side which is continued on the passenger side. Convenience amenities include a radio, cruise control, and tinted glass. There is also a period correct aftermarket trailer brake controller and a Realistic CB radio mounted below the dash. Air conditioning is equipped, and the system has been converted to run R134a refrigerant.

Instrumentation is made up of a 100-mph speedometer and accompanying gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, and oil pressure. The five-digit mechanical odometer shows 29k miles, which is expressed as 129k original miles by the seller who cites documentation dating back to new, including receipts and invoices.

The 454ci big-block Chevrolet V8 had output of 240 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 355 pound-feet of torque at 2,800 when new. Power is fed to the 3.73 rear end by way of a 3-speed Turbo-Hydramatic transmission which is noted as having been rebuilt in 2003. The tow package includes the aforementioned suspension upgrades and gearing. Other equipment includes an auxiliary gas tank with a feed switch. The engine’s cylinder heads were overhauled in 1992 at 92,000 miles per the seller, while more recent maintenance has included replacement of the brake master cylinder, rear brake cylinders, and hydraulic brake lines, engine valve cover gaskets, and an extensive fluid service.

Additional undercarriage photos can be viewed in the gallery. 

The sale includes extensive paperwork and documentation, including a handwritten fuel log, key tag, the original purchase contract with a $4,500 MSRP, a build sheet, an owner’s manual, and other accompanying literature and brochures dating back to when the truck was new.