Comprehensive 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs, often available as PDF downloads, are essential resources for restoration and repair projects.
These catalogs, like those from Classic Parts of America, detail thousands of parts and accessories, aiding in identifying correct components.
Accessing these PDF versions provides convenient, searchable information for owners and enthusiasts maintaining these classic vehicles.
What are 73-87 Chevy Truck Parts Catalogs?
73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs are detailed, comprehensive listings of every component used in Chevrolet and GMC trucks manufactured between 1973 and 1987. These catalogs, frequently found in PDF format for easy access, serve as invaluable resources for restorers, mechanics, and enthusiasts.
They meticulously document parts with diagrams, part numbers, and descriptions, enabling accurate identification and ordering. Classic Parts of America and other suppliers offer these catalogs, often covering both interior and exterior components, as well as mechanical and electrical systems.
The PDF format allows for convenient searching and printing, streamlining the parts sourcing process for these popular trucks.
Why Use a PDF Catalog?

PDF catalogs for 73-87 Chevy trucks offer significant advantages over traditional paper versions. Their digital format enables quick and easy searching for specific parts using keywords or part numbers, saving valuable time.
PDFs are readily downloadable and accessible on various devices – computers, tablets, and smartphones – providing on-the-go convenience. Printing specific sections is also straightforward, avoiding the need to carry bulky paper catalogs.
Furthermore, PDF catalogs preserve the original detail and diagrams, ensuring accurate identification of components for restoration or repair projects. They are a cost-effective and efficient solution for enthusiasts.

Finding the Right Catalog
Locating the ideal 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalog PDF involves exploring resources like Classic Parts of America, online downloads, and comparing free versus paid options.
Classic Parts of America Catalogs
Classic Parts of America stands as a premier source for 73-87 Chevy and GMC truck restoration needs, offering extensive parts catalogs. Their catalogs, frequently available for free shipping, are renowned for detailed illustrations and comprehensive listings.
These PDF catalogs cover a vast array of components, from body panels like fenders and doors to intricate interior pieces. The entire catalog content, including diagrams, is copyrighted by Classic Parts of America, ensuring quality and accuracy.
These resources are invaluable for identifying original GM parts or quality restoration alternatives, streamlining the process of finding the correct components for your classic Chevy truck project. They are a cornerstone for enthusiasts!
Online Downloadable Catalogs
Numerous websites offer downloadable PDF catalogs for 73-87 Chevy trucks, providing convenient access to parts information. These resources encompass models from Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, and Dodge, spanning several decades.
Accessing over 30,000 parts and accessories for restoration becomes significantly easier with these digital catalogs. CNJ Truck Intro catalogs are also available online, detailing various mini-truck components.
These PDF versions eliminate the need for physical catalogs, allowing users to quickly search for specific parts and diagrams. They represent a cost-effective and efficient way to begin or continue a classic truck restoration project.
Free vs. Paid Catalogs
The availability of both free and paid 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs in PDF format presents choices for restorers. Free catalogs, like the CNJ Truck Intro, offer a basic overview of available parts, often serving as introductory guides.
However, paid catalogs, such as those from Classic Parts of America, typically provide significantly more detailed information, including comprehensive diagrams and extensive parts listings.
While free options are useful for initial research, paid catalogs often prove invaluable for accurate part identification and complete restoration projects, justifying their cost through enhanced accuracy and scope.

Key Parts Covered in Catalogs

73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs detail body, interior, mechanical, and electrical components. PDF versions showcase parts like fenders, seats, engines, and wiring.
Body Parts (Fenders, Doors, Hoods)
73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs, particularly in PDF format, extensively cover exterior body components. These catalogs meticulously list fenders (left and right), doors (including shells, skins, and internal mechanisms), and hoods, offering detailed diagrams and part numbers.
Restoration projects benefit from identifying specific year and model variations, ensuring correct fitment. The catalogs often differentiate between short-bed and long-bed truck options, impacting fender dimensions.
Furthermore, they detail related hardware like door hinges, latches, and weather stripping, alongside hood supports and emblems. Finding these parts is simplified through the catalog’s organized structure and cross-referencing capabilities.
Interior Components (Seats, Dashboards, Carpets)
73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs, readily available as PDF downloads, provide comprehensive listings of interior components. Detailed sections cover seats (including upholstery, frames, and springs), dashboards (pads, bezels, and instrument clusters), and carpets (cab and floor coverings).
These catalogs are invaluable for restoration, showcasing variations in trim levels and color options. They specify part numbers for often-overlooked items like door panels, headliners, and interior hardware.
The PDF format allows easy searching for specific components, aiding in recreating original interiors. Diagrams illustrate component placement and assembly, simplifying the restoration process and ensuring accurate part selection.
Mechanical Parts (Engines, Transmissions, Differentials)
73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs, often found as downloadable PDFs, are crucial for locating mechanical components. These catalogs meticulously detail engines (short blocks, cylinder heads, and internal parts), transmissions (manual and automatic, with gear ratios), and differentials (ring and pinion sets, carriers, and axles).
Detailed exploded views and part numbers facilitate accurate identification and ordering. The PDF format enables quick searches for specific components, aiding in rebuilds or repairs.
These resources are essential for maintaining the original mechanical integrity of these classic trucks, offering a pathway to sourcing hard-to-find parts.
Electrical System Parts (Wiring Harnesses, Lights, Gauges)
73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs, readily available as PDF downloads, are invaluable for restoring the electrical systems of these vehicles. They comprehensively list wiring harnesses (complete assemblies and individual connectors), lights (headlights, taillights, turn signals), and gauges (speedometers, fuel gauges, temperature gauges).
PDF catalogs provide detailed diagrams and part numbers, simplifying the process of identifying and replacing faulty components. Locating original or reproduction parts becomes significantly easier with these resources;
Maintaining the original electrical functionality is crucial, and these catalogs are essential tools for enthusiasts and restorers.

Understanding Catalog Information
PDF 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs utilize specific part numbers and detailed diagrams for accurate identification. Model year specificity and revision dates are crucial.
Part Numbers and Diagrams
Within 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs, part numbers serve as unique identifiers for each component, ensuring accurate ordering and preventing incorrect replacements. These numbers are meticulously listed alongside detailed diagrams, often exploded views, illustrating how parts fit together.
These diagrams are invaluable for visualizing assemblies and understanding the relationship between different components during restoration or repair. The PDF format allows for zooming in on intricate details within the diagrams, aiding in precise identification.
Catalog users should carefully cross-reference part numbers with the diagrams to confirm compatibility and ensure they are selecting the correct parts for their specific Chevy truck model.
Model Year Specificity
73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs aren’t universally applicable; they demonstrate crucial model year specificity. Variations in components occurred throughout this period, necessitating the use of a catalog corresponding to the exact year of your vehicle.
A PDF catalog designed for a 1973 Chevy will contain parts information differing from one for a 1987 model. Ignoring this can lead to ordering incorrect parts that don’t fit or function properly.
Carefully verify the catalog’s model year range before relying on its information. Many catalogs clearly state the years they cover, ensuring users select the appropriate resource for their restoration or repair needs.
Catalog Revision Dates
When utilizing 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs, especially in PDF format, noting the revision date is critically important. Parts information, diagrams, and part numbers can change over time due to corrections, updates, or the introduction of new parts.
An older catalog might list superseded parts or inaccurate diagrams. Always prioritize using the most recent version available to ensure accuracy during your restoration or repair work.
Manufacturers frequently release updated catalogs, so checking for a newer revision date before ordering is a prudent practice. This simple step can save time, money, and frustration by preventing incorrect parts purchases.

Specific Catalog Resources
Several resources offer 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs in PDF format, including the comprehensive Master Parts Catalog and CNJ Truck Intro catalogs.
Chevrolet’s older catalogs (1947+) also contain valuable information for these classic trucks.
1973-1987 Chevy Truck Master Parts Catalog
The 1973-1987 Chevy Truck Master Parts Catalog is a cornerstone resource for owners and restorers of these iconic vehicles. Often found as a downloadable PDF, this catalog meticulously details a vast array of components, offering detailed diagrams and crucial part numbers.
It serves as an invaluable tool for accurately identifying the correct parts needed for repairs, restorations, or modifications. The catalog’s comprehensive nature ensures that even obscure or hard-to-find components can be sourced effectively.
Classic Parts of America frequently references this master catalog, highlighting its importance within the Chevy truck community. Accessing a PDF version allows for easy searching and printing, streamlining the restoration process.
CNJ Truck Intro Catalog
The CNJ Truck Intro Catalog provides a focused overview of available parts, often accessible as a free PDF download. While not as exhaustive as a master catalog, it serves as an excellent starting point for identifying key components for 73-87 Chevy trucks.

This introductory catalog highlights a selection of commonly requested parts and accessories, offering a quick reference for initial project planning. It’s particularly useful for those new to restoring these trucks, providing a manageable entry point into the world of Chevy truck parts.
The PDF format allows for convenient browsing and sharing, making it a popular resource within online forums and communities.
Chevrolet Truck Interior & Exterior Parts Catalog (1947+)
The Chevrolet Truck Interior & Exterior Parts Catalog, spanning from 1947 onwards, is a comprehensive resource, frequently found as a downloadable PDF. While covering a broad range of years, it includes detailed sections relevant to the 73-87 Chevy truck models.
This catalog excels in illustrating both interior and exterior components, offering detailed diagrams and part numbers for items like dashboards, seats, fenders, and doors. It’s invaluable for restoration projects aiming for originality.
Accessing the PDF version allows users to easily search for specific parts and cross-reference information, streamlining the restoration process.

Downloading and Using PDF Catalogs
Downloading 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs in PDF format requires a PDF reader. Utilize search functions within the PDF for efficient part location.
PDF Reader Requirements
Accessing and effectively utilizing 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs in PDF format necessitates a compatible PDF reader application installed on your device. Adobe Acrobat Reader is a widely used, free option, providing robust functionality for viewing, searching, and printing these detailed documents.
Alternative PDF readers, such as Foxit Reader or Sumatra PDF, also offer suitable capabilities. Ensure your chosen reader is up-to-date to benefit from the latest features and security enhancements.
These applications allow you to navigate through the often extensive pages of these catalogs, zoom in for detailed inspection of part diagrams, and efficiently locate specific components using the built-in search functionality. A stable internet connection is generally not required once the PDF is downloaded.
Search Functionality within PDFs
A key advantage of utilizing 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs in PDF format is the powerful search functionality integrated within PDF reader applications. This feature allows users to quickly locate specific parts, part numbers, or keywords within the extensive documentation.
Simply open the PDF, activate the search tool (typically Ctrl+F or Cmd+F), and enter your query. The PDF reader will highlight all instances of the search term, enabling rapid identification of relevant pages and components.
This is particularly useful when seeking information on specific models or years, streamlining the process of finding the correct parts for your restoration or repair project. Efficient searching saves considerable time and effort.
Printing Considerations
When printing 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs from PDF format, several considerations ensure optimal results. Due to the catalogs’ extensive page counts, utilizing a laser printer is recommended for durability and clarity, especially for frequent referencing during restoration work.
Before printing, review the PDF’s print settings to select appropriate paper size (typically 8.5×11 or 11×17 inches) and orientation. Consider grayscale printing to conserve color ink, as most catalogs feature black and white diagrams.
Binding the printed pages is highly advisable for ease of use. A three-hole punch and binder or professional binding services create a durable, organized reference manual.

The Significance of “73” in Radio Communication
Interestingly, “73” in radio parlance signifies “best regards,” a friendly sign-off. This tradition, popular among amateur radio operators, has become a common practice.
Origin of “73” as a Sign-Off
The origin of “73” as a radio sign-off is rooted in early Morse code communication. It’s believed to have originated with Western Union telegraph operators in the 19th century. The code for “73” closely resembles the phrase “best regards” when translated into Morse code – dots and dashes forming a recognizable pattern.
As amateur radio gained popularity, operators adopted this shorthand as a polite and efficient way to conclude transmissions. It became a widely recognized symbol of goodwill and camaraderie within the ham radio community. The practice extended beyond simple transmissions, appearing in emails and even social media posts among enthusiasts.
While seemingly unrelated to 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs, this historical quirk demonstrates how codes and shorthand can evolve and persist across different fields, showcasing a fascinating aspect of communication history.
Usage in Amateur Radio
Within amateur radio, “73” (or “73s”) functions as a warm and universally understood sign-off, equivalent to “sincerely” or “regards.” It’s a concise expression of good wishes and acknowledgment of a successful communication. Operators frequently use it at the end of voice transmissions or digital exchanges.
The prevalence of “73” stems from its historical roots in Morse code and its efficient transmission. It’s a tradition passed down through generations of ham radio operators, fostering a sense of community and shared heritage. You’ll often find it appended to email correspondence and online forum posts within the hobby.
Interestingly, despite its radio origins, the search for 73-87 Chevy truck parts catalogs often leads enthusiasts to online forums where “73” might appear as a friendly closing remark from fellow restorers!















































































