Behind the model: First Gear 1:34 scale Chevrolet C65/GMC 6500 Flatbed and Stake Trucks

By Jim Livermore
​Note: This feature is in the March TT&C 2021 issue.

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In 1973, General Motors redesigned its medium-duty trucks. The new Chevrolet and GMC trucks now closely resembled the design of its pickup trucks. Many improvements were made over the previous generation trucks, including an all-new stylish interior and increased glass area that improved visibility.

A wide range of chassis, engines and options were available. Paint options included new colors and a new two-tone paint option of white paired with a choice of 11 colors.
Customers could choose between an alligator-style hood or a fiberglass front-tilt hood. The entire hood could be removed with just four bolts, to allow for full access to the engine bay. In addition, the new door frame was fabricated from a single piece of metal, adding to its stronger structure.
The new trucks were designed to accept a full range of body types, such as flatbeds, stake, box, fire engines, tow trucks or tankers.

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