1969 GMC Pickup Specifications
by Tom Lutzenberger
The 1969 GMC pickup truck choices continued the brand's C and K truck lines in the various truck weight categories traditionally offered. With some additions and changes to the engine option lineup, the truck models were generally comparable to earlier models through the mid-1960s -- with the 1500, 2500 and 3500 signifying the 1/2-ton, 3/4-ton and 1-ton truck models. The 1969 year lineup would represent the last year the trucks were made before fuel shortages and emission laws changed designs.
Body Details
Similar to its sister brand, Chevrolet, GMC continued the same front grille and brand badge on the front of the truck. The headlights also continued the beefier lineup of the quad-light feature compared to the more consumer-minded Chevy design of dual headlights.
Body colors were fabricated in a two-tone pattern as a result of using upper and lower side sections. These color choices were offered as standard on the CST package and as discretionary on other models. The three options offered included the base 1500 package, the Custom 1500 (CST), and the Super Custom 1500.
The Astro body design offered a much larger cabin area, increasing passenger space and room for traveling and comfort. The increased window area also improved driver visibility.
The interior included a soft dashboard, heat and defrost functions, a lower steering wheel position, and a dual speed windshield wiper motor.
Engine Details
The 1969 GMC trucks gained a new eight-cylinder option with a 255-horsepower, 350-cubic-inch offering in the 5.7-liter engine.
The remaining engine choices ranged from the bottom choice of a six-cylinder 250-cubic-inch model putting out 140 horsepower to an eight-cylinder, 396-cubic-inch model producing 310 horsepower. Fuel choices included both gas or diesel engines, including the six-cylinder model.
Braking and Transmission
The 1969 models included the introduction of a foot-operated emergency brake versus the old design of a hand-operated version.
The standard package for the truck was built with a three-speed manual option. From there consumers could choose a larger four-speed transmission with manual shift or opt for an automatic transmission. Choices were limited, depending on the engine model installed in the truck.
References
Writer Bio
Since 2009 Tom Lutzenberger has written for various websites, covering topics ranging from finance to automotive history. Lutzenberger works in public finance and policy and consults on a variety of analytical services. His education includes a Bachelor of Arts in English and political science from Saint Mary's College and a Master of Business Administration in finance and marketing from California State University, Sacramento.
