First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel Curve

First Gen C10 – A Flawless Transformation

Today, C10s are far and away some of the most sought after classic trucks on the market especially first gen C10 trucks now that the 2nd gens have been done to death. With as many options offered as any muscle car of the era, it’s no surprise these trucks put Chevrolet on top of the truck manufacturing industry.

First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel Curve

When Chevy debuted the C10 pickup in 1960, it changed the course of how we view trucks today. These were some of the first designs to fuse utility truck and daily driving comfort with the help of A-arm suspension and the ladder-frame design.

The story of this unique truck began like many others do. Growing up, owner Jason Ankerson became fascinated with his Grandpa Ed’s 1965 Stepside First Gen C10 – it was like love at first sight. He remembers that the truck was green with a white roof – cherished enough to still remain in the family today. “I also learned how to drive in a first-gen long bed Fleetside,” Jason said.

First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel Curve

Then in 1997, he ponied up and bought his very own first gen C10 truck – a 1965 model just like grandpas. “It’s pretty cool to say I’m still driving the very first vehicle I ever bought,” Jason said.

First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel Curve

It started as his high school driver, fast forward through a couple of shameless speeding tickets, a series of engine transplants, and Jason eventually fell down a 12 year-long rabbit hole. Funny enough, the actual restoration all started with a broken speedo cable!

First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel Curve


Jason slowly but surely tore the truck down. He reworked all of the suspension and shortened the box 12-inches before he ended up taking it to Ben Vaneperen at No Coast Custom and Rod Shop in Lincoln, Nebraska. Together, Jason and Ben came up with some very clean body design changes that really set this truck apart.

First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel Curve

No Coast Custom and Rod Shop stepped in for the body fab changes, paint, and assembly. They shaved and tucked both of the front and rear bumpers then flipped the rear bumper. The stake pockets and drip rails were also shaved. The entire truck was gapped. The tailgate was smoothed and the inner fenders and firewall were custom made for a one-off look.

First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel Curve

First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel CurveOne of the most prominent features on any first-gen C10 is the bodyline that runs the entire length of the truck. Ben made sure it was tack sharp and consistent from the headlights down to the taillights – something you’d never see from the factory.

No Coast mixed up a Custom Mystery Grey paint color sprayed with BASF Glasurit clear. Jason and his wife Jen stained and sealed the bed wood kit, which was custom made by Designer Woods.

First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel Curve

Jason is fond of Resto Mods and Pro-Touring builds and uses a bit of that as inspiration. He opted for a GM 5.3L Vortec engine mated to a 700R4 transmission. He upgraded to Dakota Digital Gauges and had Stitchin’ Auto Upholstery recover the interior.

First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel Curve

First Gen C10, 1965 Chevy C10, Fuel Curve

Jason’s truck survives today with a long list of transformations that all point back to his initial love for the hobby. He admits that he’s not a crazy car show guy, but he loves having a reliable truck he can actually get some use out of and cruise!

Jason Lubken is a well-versed freelancer based out of the Midwest. Whether it’s occasionally turning a wrench, or shooting his next feature, he’s been involved in the automotive industry for as long as he can remember. It’s safe to say that his affinity for storytelling has blossomed into his life’s mission – to share the talents of others in the best possible light he can. His off time usually consists of some kind of garage “therapy” and chasing after the sun.