Interesting Finds: 1971 GMC Sierra Grande Custom Pickup

One of the many eye-catching vehicles at the Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale earlier this year was a custom 1971 GMC Sierra Grande 4×4 pickup. From its “Black Cherry” and white two-tone paint job, to the KMC beadlock wheels, to the fully custom houndstooth interior, it was a stunning creation inside, outside, and even underneath. This truck gave auction attendees a perfect introduction to General Motors’ famous “Action Line” series of pickups which were produced from model years 1967 through 1972. It sold at $128,700, which may generate a little bit of sticker shock for some of you…

That is, until you look at the photos along with our recent ClassicCars TV video to admire the quality of the workmanship. If you haven’t already done so, click on over to join the more than 12,000 subscribers to the ClassicCars TV YouTube channel. The channel features multiple episodes per week with spotlights on noteworthy classic vehicles in the marketplace, new car reviews, diecast collector hobby insights, and product showcases. If you are into automotive, you are bound to find something that interests you there.

Back to this custom Sierra Grande shortbed pickup: The two-minute feature on this truck only touches the tip of the iceberg regarding how involved the custom build was. Things started off with a nut-and-bolt rotisserie restoration. The bed was lined with oak planks and stainless-steel hardware. A four-inch Rough Country suspension lift was added along with KMC beadlock tires and BFGoodrich tires.

For the drivetrain, the motor selected was a 406cid V8 mated to a column-shifted three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The chassis received some nice modern upgrades like Wilwood power disc brakes, power steering, and a dual Flowmaster exhaust system. Finally, the interior was updated with bucket seats and custom houndstooth upholstery. My favorite aspect of this build is how it preserved the original look while adopting modern technology. Even the Sierra Grande woodgrain trim for the dash remained intact. The owner’s manual and Protect-O-Plate were included with the sale.

If you weren’t lucky enough to be able to place a bid on this beautiful truck, keep your eyes and ears open for similar pickups coming through the ClassicCars classifieds, the AutoHunter auctions, or the Barrett-Jackson auctions in the future. You are bound to find one that sweeps you off your feet.