in. Contrary to what most say, these engines are not too smog-smothered being only available in 1978 and 1979. + Read More 1986 Chevrolet El Camino Current Bid: $7,000 Ends In: 1967 Chevrolet El Camino Current Bid: $9,500 Ends In: 1987 Chevrolet El Camino Price $8,500 Offers 0 SHEET METAL PRIMER is applied to all outside and inside surfaces of front fenders and hoods. We have owned, currently own, and driven a LOT of 1970's and 1980's GM vehicles, as well as other domestic cars and trucks, in both restored and bad condition. 6-3
-U35 -- Clock: Electric (in guage cluster) -- 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
-229 cubic inch 2bbl Chevrolet V6 rated at 110 hp @ 4200 RPM and 190 lb-ft @ 1600 RPM (base engine)
The El Camino transmissions started with a three-speed stick shift with synchromesh. Since Diesel engines rely considerably on fuel delivery timing, this was a big issue and not necessarily easily diagnosed. -M38 -- 229
1982:
-VJ9 -- Emissions Systems: California emissions information label -- 1978
The optional full gauge cluster is still modern looking, accurate, and clear by today's standards. X 1.03in. It has the comfort of a car and the hauling capability of a small pickup. M = V-6, 200cid
-NA5 -- XSF -- 305 cubic inch 4bbl V8 -- 1407579
Divide the total number value obtained in step 3 by 11. -K81 -- Generator: 63 Amp Delcotron -- 1979, 1980, 1981
It won't win any drag races, but after all these years it is still going strong unlike many over-complicated modern engines with too many moving parts. -6DY -- Front Spring LH -- 1978
Some sources say 1985 was the first export date, but the data from GM specifying 1983 makes sense because they would have needed preperation and ramp-up time before all El Camino production moved here in 1985. -YH6 -- Bonus value option package -- 1985
First thing first: this is a GM vehicle from 1978. They did get great fuel mileage though, reported to be on average in mid to high 20 MPG in some cases. -QFV -- Tires: P205/75 R-14-B White Lettered (Radial) -- 1979
The author's expert advice is sure to help readers avoid the . -U29 -- Instrument Panel Courtesy Lamp. A bulletin to dealers from Truck Merchandising Manager L.P. Schinzing specifies that both the Z16 Super Sport package and the Z15 Black Knight package must be specified on orders. -Silver, metallic -- Red -- Silver Gray
1987 Chevrolet El Camino Restomod SS Fuel Injection Disc Brakes 1986 1985 1984 . -M20 -- 267, 305
-Backlight slope angle: 20.0 degrees
W-6
-BS1 -- Body Insulation 'Acoustic' Package -- 1978, 1980
This insures a smooth surface for the lacquer finish. The "Second Generation" Chevrolet El Camino was produced from 1964 through 1967 and, as mentioned, was based on the all new Chevrolet Chevelle chassis as a mid-sized, coupe/pickup, type vehicle. -Silver, metallic -- Blue -- Dark Blue
Vehicles with Similar Dimensions The crankshaft was nodular iron, and although the connecting rods started as 403 gas-engine pieces, they had beefier ends and rods, and were a different length. The factory produced the A-bodies and J-bodies. -84M -- Accent Color: Charcoal Metallic -- 1982
So keeping this in proper context, consider the other vehicles of 1978. G-7
-62M -- Accent Color: Medium Brown Metallic -- 1983(called Light Brown Metallic), 1984(called Light Brown Metallic), 1985, 1986, 1987
-M38 -- 200, 305, 350, 1979:
THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES. -Brake booster: Delco two-diaphragm, 7.9in. 7. It is probably the closest thing for a driving impression we can get for a true 1978 version in every-day use. Note these are NOT '1988' models; there are no 1988 production models since this would require a VIN change after dealer delivery which cannot be done. To be fair there has been one concession to power urges by a previous owner of this vehicle, that being the headers and custom dual exhaust. -M38 -- THM350, 3-speed automatic, (1) 2.52, (2) 1.52, (3) 1, (R) 1.93
-MV4 -- THM350C, 3-speed automatic, (1) 2.52, (2) 1.52, (3) 1, (R) 1.93
$359.00. 8-10
231 cubic inch Buick V6 eith "closed loop" emissions for California introduced. If anyone has any records or El Caminos or Caballeros from this plant, please let us know. It is manufactured in Mexico. wheelbase and shorter 201.6-in. Note: According to Wards Automotive Yearbook 1979, 40.2% of 1978 El Caminos had 350 CID engines and 47.6% had 305 CID engines. 1983 Chevrolet El Camino Dealer Information
-Front wheel bearings: taper roller, two per spindle, inner 1.25in, outer .8437-.8445in
-231 cubic inch 2bbl Buick V6 rated at 110 hp @ 3800 RPM and 190 lb-ft @ 1600 RPM (California base engine)
-YF5 -- DTR -- 305 cubic inch 4bbl V8 (California) -- 14065566
-W84 -- Add Fuel, Gas -- 1979, 1980
-69M -- Accent Color: Medium Brown Metallic -- 1978(called Dark Camel Metallic), 1979(called Dark Brown Metallic), 1980(called Medium Camel Metallic), 1981
-Note: Overdrive transmissions listed here, although not shown as available in dealer paperwork. . -L39 -- 4.4L (267 cubic inch) 2bbl V8 -- 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982
J-1
G = 1986
-D73 -- Rails, Cargo Box Side -- 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987
-200 cubic inch 2bbl Chevrolet V6 rated at 94 hp @ 4000 RPM and 154 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM (base engine)
-305 cubic inch 4bbl V8 rated at 150 hp @ 4000 RPM and 240 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM (California AND non-California the same), 1987:
5-4
**Discrepancies could be due in part to different accounting methods; 'model year' versus 'actual year by date' as manufactured, and 'production' versus 'sales' numbers recorded in the incorrect category by researchers. -NA5 -- OYD -- 350 cubic inch fuel injection Diesel V8 -- 22517335
-NM4 -- Emissions Systems: Export, Canada
Vehicle production numbers
10. The 62,358 miles showing on the odometer are original. -QXZ -- Tires: P205/75 R-14-B White Lettered (Radial) -- 1981, 1982, 1983
For fifth generation El Caminos this seems to have been a rarely-ordered option as we have encountered exactly zero of these up to this date. The frame of the El Camino is not the same one used in the station wagon. J = V-8, 267cid
Location The VIN number is stamped on a plate located on top of the instrument panel and visible through the windshield on the drivers side. -White -- Red -- Maroon
The idea of a car-based light duty pickup or coupe utility had been played around with prior to World War II but it seemed to have been forgotten until the 1950s when the success of the "gentleman" pickups like the Chevy Cameo indicated that the market was ready for an even more car-like pickup truck. 1985: 2,503-carsalesbase.com**
1986 Chevrolet El Camino, 30,000 Original miles, Power Windows, Power Locks, Garage Kept, Non Smoker Southern California car engine rebuilt shift automatic 2 bucket seat blue 2 tone bed liner. -UM7 -- Electronically tuned AM/FM Stereo Radio with seek and scan and digital clock -- 1986, 1987
-Carmine, metallic -- Red -- Black or Carmine
-Minimum base weight: 3155 lb. -58M -- Accent Color: Light Brown Metallic -- 1985, 1986, 1987
The 9th digit in the 17 digit VIN is called the check digit. -3-speed automatic th350 (305 V8 California), 2.41 axle std., 2.73 optional
U39 added temperature, voltage, and oil pressure guages, U35 placed a clock on the right (with the clock font unchanged), U16 placed a tachometer there. 80 = 2dr Sedan Pick-up
-24V -- Vinyl, Light Blue -- 1978
Find your dream car today. Doraville, GA -- Doraville Assembly was a General Motors automobile factory in Doraville, Georgia. -LD5 -- 3.8L (231 cubic inch) 2bbl V6 Buick -- 1978, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984
1st digit - This is the Country of origin
When required, light "slush" polishing brings painted surfaces to a high luster finish. -Diesel engine from Oldsmobile first offered in El Caminos. -NA2 -- CW -- 305 cubic inch 2bbl V8 -- 472882
1986: 21,508-carsalesbase.com**
Choo-Choo Customs conversions (dealer docs show pics in 1986 catalog under "SS Sport trim"). Pistons were made from special high-strength cast aluminum by Bohn. In 1983, the GM Ramos Arizpe plant became the automakers first Mexican factory to export vehicles to the U.S. market, debuting with the Chevy El Camino. -NA5 -- DTN -- 305 cubic inch 4bbl V8 -- 14065565
-29M -- Accent Color: Dark Blue Metallic -- 1978, 1980, 1981, 1982
General information:
-MV9 -- 231, 305, 262
CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. K = V-6, 229cid
-M67 -- 4-speed manual, (1) 2.85, (2) 2.02, (3) 1.35, (4) 1, (R) 2.85 [most likely Saginaw]
INITIAL BAKING. Complete sets of locks for a vehicle were not pre-packaged together. 2 = Canada
Early El Camino SS until mid-1985 used aluminum body side molding with machine-turned center and two vinyl inserts running full length of the molding. -YF5 -- LAN -- 305 cubic inch 4bbl V8 (California) -- 14063721
Decal details: large hood decal (dragons on shield), "Royal Knight" fender decals, one each side, "Royal Knight" tailgate decal, upper and lower body side stripes including: front fender, door, rear quarter panel and tailgate. Transmission: 3 Automatic Production Figures Dimensions Coupe Handling Recall Information provided by NHTSA Data updated January 2023 1986 Averages The 1986 Chevrolet El Camino measures 71.90 inches in width, The 1986 Chevrolet El Camino measures 201.60 inches in length, and has a wheelbase of 117.10 inches. 1-1
-75M -- Accent Color: Claret Metallic -- 1980
-62I -- Interior, Camel --1978
-4-speed automatic (305 V8), 2.56 axle std., 3.08 optional, Trim levels Offered By Year:
1985: 21,816-carsalesbase.com**
Transmission options included a 3-speed manual or an optional 4-speed manual, or an optional 3-speed (later a 4-speed) automatic. -GMC (1AW80): Caballero, Amarillo, Diablo, 1982-1983:
The Harrison R4 systems will generally have pressure switches, particularly a low-pressure switch to deactivate the compressor clutch in the event the low pressure side of the system runs too low and threatens to starve the compressor. GMC Laredo/Amarillo/RPO D91:
Air Conditioning (4) Alloy Wheels (1) Anti-Lock Brakes (3) Anti-Theft System (1) Bench . 1981 Chevrolet El Camino Fifth generation. On the right, the Frigidaire A6 compressor with a v-belt pulley. Solid black paint, tri-tone gold pin striping on sides and tailgate, "Black Knight" lettered decals on lower front fender and lower right hand portion of tailgate. -Base package, similar to El Camino/Classic package. K = Leeds, MO
All gas engines get Computer Command Control (CCC). -U63 -- AM Radio -- 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987
-Fuel tank: 17.7 gallon. 1987 Chevrolet El Camino has had 3 recalls in the past 36 years. ENGINE: (305 cu in, 4,999 cc) 180 hp8 cylinders in vee305 cu in, 4,999 cc (3.74 x 3.48 in, 94.9 x 88.4 mm)compression ratio: 9.5:15 crankshaft bearings1 Rochester down- draught 4-barrel carburettorcooling: 26.4 imp pt, 31.7 US pt, TRANSMISSIONdriving wheels: reargearbox: Turbo-Hydramatic 200-C automatic transmissionhydraulic torque converter and planetary gears with 3 ratiosmax ratio of converter at stall 1.90, possible manual selectionratios: I 2740, II 1.570, III 1, rev 2.070(option) gearbox: Turbo-Hydramatic 200 R-4 automatic transmissionhydraulic torque converter and planetary gears with 4 ratiosratios: I 2.740, II 1.570, III 1, IV 0.670, rev 2.070axle ratio: 3.730 or 2.500. 1986 Chevrolet El Camino has an enjoyable REGULAR CAB PICKUP 2-DR body style. -231 cubic inch 2bbl Buick V6 rated at 105 hp @ 3400 RPM and 185 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM(California base engine)
MESSAGE US or give us a call at Share this Vehicle Print Window Sticker Description Features Documents Description -Fuel tank: 17.4 gallon, 1987:
The GMC Sprint is a coupe utility/pickup that was produced by GMC for the 1971-1977 model years.The Sprint was renamed Caballero for the 1978 model year, and produced through 1987. 8,975 1986 Chevrolet El Camino - Macomb, IL 3,018 below average gasoline automatic This El Camino is equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine and automatic transmission. -- 229 cubic inch 2bbl Chevrolet V6 --
They do not compare well to today's powerhouses obviously, but they are smooth, strong, and durable. -QYB -- Tires: P205/75 R-14-B Whitewall (Radial) -- 1981
-D64 -- Mirror: Visor Vanity, Illuminated -- 1978, 1979
-ZK9 -- Roof Cover, Conquista Vinyl -- 1978, 1979, 1980
Reportedly dealership mechanics were inadequately educated on these engines, compounding and amplifying all these issues. . The 1984-87 El Camino SS was offered as a conversion (completed by Choo-Choo Customs Inc., of Chattanooga, Tennessee) to include the aerodynamic front end similar to the Monte Carlo SS, but did not receive the L69 engine package. The engine type is 5.0L V8 OHV. <<. -Steering wheel change to 'flat' spoke design with outboard horn buttons. The fifth-gen El Camino was offered with a wide range of Chevy and even Buick V-6 engines and comparatively anemic small-block V-8s - although their inherent low-rpm torque still made the smaller El Camino a competent hauler and output increased significantly in the mid-Eighties. -New full wheelcover design for base models. 3rd digit - This is the Make
-Exterior -- Decal -- Interior
-General suspension provisions, anti-squat control: rear suspension geometry
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada -- Opened in 1953. Production continued through 1980 when the plant was closed. -22Q -- Moldings: Light Blue -- 1978
-11K -- Cover, Cargo Box Tonneau: White -- 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982
3-speed manual 4-speed manual 3-speed Turbo-Hydramatic auto. View/Hide options. Oldsmobile was given the passenger car Diesel development project, possibly because GM often let Olds introduce new technologies such as the Hydramatic transmission and front-wheel drive. -Lowest ground clearance: rear shock absorber bracket
The Diesel was pretty much dropped into the GM model line-up with very few transmission or gearing adjustments. There are 131 new and used 1973 to 2000 Chevrolet El Caminos listed for sale near you on ClassicCars.com with prices starting as low as $1,750. Black side window reveal moldings, and gold graphic decal on hood. This El Camino is kind of a rare bird, with a 5 liter V8 and air conditioning. 16-3
-MM4 -- specifies 4-speed manual option, non-specific type
More print ads not shown on the rest of the page: Style differences in steering wheel designs. The plant opened in 1947 and closed on 26 September 2008 as part of the company's cost-cutting measures. -NA5 -- LAX -- 229 cubic inch 2bbl Chevrolet V6 -- 14063729
To block out road noise, an asbestos fiber sound deadener with asphalt base is sprayed inside the wheel housings and on the bottom of the underbody at designated areas. -M31 -- 229, 231, 267, 305
R-9
Location. -NA5 -- AWS -- 229 cubic inch 2bbl Chevrolet V6 auto trans -- 14037722 or 14047073 or 14047077
-229 cubic inch 2bbl Chevrolet V6 rated at 115 hp @ 4000 RPM and 175 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM (base engine)
We suspect that most reviewers drive worn out vehicles and attempt to compare them to factory vehicles. The parts are mechanically dipped or flow-coated to insure coating in all seams and secluded areas, and baked at 390 degrees F. for 30 minutes. 1984: 1,309 (elcaminocentral.com says 4,144)*
-GMC (1AW80): Caballero, Laredo, Diablo, 1981:
-Back window visibility area: 513.8 sq. In early years GM seems to have switched and swapped transmissions as necessary to obtain the total torque multiplication desired, rather than re-gear transmissions for individual applications. The plant opened in 1935 to produce Chevrolets and closed on May 13, 2005. 6. Since letter designations changed each year (or mostly each year), this seems to be the main reason to do this since otherwise the locks going in would have to first be sorted by the correct letter. -305 cubic inch 4bbl V8 rated at 155 hp @ 4000 RPM and 230 lb-ft @ 2400 RPM (California only)
-U28 -- Ash tray light
1979 Royal Knight color options:
1 = Oshawa, Canada
-94A -- Stripe Gold, Accent colors: [Note that not all year availability may be correct for all colors]
1982:
These crossmembers are a direct bolt-on. This is fairly standard for all GM products of the day however. RPO UY8 introduced, AM/FM stereo radio with clock and digital display. It was not available on Malibu passenger cars. Quote Now! The wheel of the vehicle's axle are RWD driveline. -NA5 -- AM -- 305 cubic inch 4bbl auto trans -- 14020623
Ignition -- A -- 320588 -- 50 -- 1979, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986
-MV4 -- 305
-BX8 -- Moldings: Front Fender, Body Side and Tailgate -- 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987
-Note: No 262 V6 option listed, but was available in dealer paperwork. Zip Code. -Last year for Diesel engine from Oldsmobile in El Caminos. -MW9 -- 262, 305. -Fuel tank: 17.7 gallon, 22 gallon (not available with Diesel engine), 1984:
1981: 36,711-carsalesbase.com**
The full catalog of Chevy engine options was available, including the trusty 235 CID straight six and 283 CID V8s, and even the 348 CID V8 with three two-barrel carbs and 315 hp. -305 cubic inch 4bbl V8 rated at 155 hp @ 4000 RPM and 225 lb-ft @ 2400 RPM (California only)
-NA5 -- ZDB -- 305 cubic inch 4bbl V8 -- 10051436
The 350-cubic-inch (5.7-liter) V8, developing 170 horsepower (130kW) was again available. -7DY -- Front Spring RH -- 1978
-MX2 -- THM350C, 3-speed automatic, Note: for an RPO cross-reference, see here, -RPO -- Engine uses -- Gear ratios
All compressors use a standard electro-magnetic activation clutch design to engage the compressor. -Chevrolet (1GW80): El Camino, Conquista, Super Sport, Royal Knight
Comfort: Our version has factory air conditioning, power driver's seat, and the roomy Malibu interior with dual center armrests and split bench seat. -4-speed manual (305 V8), 3.08 rear axle ratio only, floor shift, positraction NOT available
GM Turbo 400 TH400 Transmission 3 Speed . -MV9 -- 229, 1981:
-NA6 -- LM -- 350 cubic inch 4bbl V8 (high altitude) -- 476338
-62V -- Vinyl, Camel
8th through 13th digits Sequential Production Number
1982: 23,104-GM Heritage Center (chevelles.com and elcaminos.com and thecowboycadillac.com** says 22,732)
-MW9 -- 229, 305, 350 Diesel
1980: 5,444
. -262 cubic inch fuel injection (TBI) V6 rated at 130 hp @ 3600 RPM and 210 lb-ft @ 2000 RPM (California AND non-California the same)
**The information from the cowboycadillac.com was obtained from the "Chevrolet El Camino Photo History" by automotive journalist Monty Montgomery. The fenders had Black Knight done in florid Olde English script and repeated on the tailgate. H = V-8, 305cid
The pan is the same. 5. -M20 -- 305
L = V-8, 350cid
2-7
1979 - Slightly altered grille is the only visual change this year. Caballero production** numbers (total includes all trim levels and versions independant from El Camino):
However, a "small-block" 267-cubic-inch (4.4-liter) V8 joined the options list and slotted between the standard 3.3-liter V6 and the optional 5.0-liter four-barrel V8. -11M -- Accent Color: White -- 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983
FYI: a Th350 and the TH250C share many of the same parts. -VE5 -- Bumper Equipment: Bumper Rub Strips -- 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987
If you have any verified photographs of 1978-1987 vinyl roofs, please send them to us so we can provide evidence of actual production cars! Vehicle information, history, and specifications from concept to production. -White -- Gold -- Camel, 1982 Royal Knight color options:
With over 30 completed muscle car restorations under our belt, including our original 1968 Chevelle SS396 owned since 1980, to our insane pro-touring 1978 Z/28 LSX Camaro, there's nothing we have not seen or done! Another issue was the chain on the mechanical fuel-injector pump stretching with normal use causing late fuel delivery.