A complete makeover for light-duty trucks replaced the rather brutish 1960–1966 designs, and it was billed as “the most significant cab and sheet metal styling change in Chevrolet history.” These trucks, known as the “Action Line,” were more car-like, and they reflected the growing appetite for pickups among the general public. They were available in half, three-quarter, and one-ton capacities and with short or long pickup boxes. Most of them also had the option of “Stepside” or “Fleetside” cargo bodies.

Technical specifications had largely carried over from 1966. Coil-spring independent suspension was used in the front, and most half and three-quarter ton models had trailing arm coil suspension in the rear, although leaf springs were available as an option. Engine choices included two sixes, plus V-8s of either 283 or 327 cubic inches. A Custom Sport Truck package included features that were desired by the new truck-buying demographic, such as carpeting, bucket seats, and upgraded interior and exterior trim.

In 1969, the long-running 350-cubic inch version of Chevy’s small block V-8 became an option, and it replaced the 327. This would become the most prolific of the small blocks, as it remained in production, in one form or another, until 2004. The more upscale Cheyenne function and trim package, which was introduced in 1971, included lower wide chrome moldings, an interior dome light switch, a cargo light, a chrome front bumper, a full foam seat, a cigar lighter, a deluxe trim interior, and bright window moldings.

This 1972 C10 Cheyenne Pickup was well-equipped from new, but it has been treated to further upgrades as well. It was originally built as a 350 CID automatic transmission truck with power steering, power front disc brakes, and factory air conditioning, but it now has tuned-port fuel injection, making it good for an estimated 300 horsepower; a 700R4 four-speed overdrive Hydra-Matic; and Intro forged billet wheels. The latter, which are mounted with 18x8 fronts that sport 245/40-18 BF Goodrich G-Force T/A radials and 20x9 rears that are mounted with 295/45-20 tires, give it an appreciable and stylish rake.

This pickup was then acquired from the estate of a discerning local collector, who subjected it to a complete and meticulous restoration. Its paint quality, brightwork, and details are all exceptional. The bed floor is of a highly varnished wood with bright rub strips. The all-new interior is black, with matching mats. It has a factory dashboard tachometer and is fitted with a modern Pioneer AM/FM/Cassette stereo. Likewise, the undercarriage has been fully detailed to meet the standards of the rest of the truck.

Short-bed trucks like this one are jauntier than their long-bed brethren; thus, they are often preferred by collectors. They’re rarer too, as just 39,730 were built for 1972, the last year of the Action Line, as opposed to the nearly 275,000 with the extended bed. This Cheyenne is short, sweet, and spirited, and it is ready to haul.