“1987 Chevy Silverado 4×4 For Sale Craigslist: A Buyer’s Guide to a Classic Typestruckssale.com
Finding a 1987 Chevy Silverado 4×4 for sale on Craigslist can be like striking gold. These trucks represent a rugged, reliable, and increasingly sought-after era of American pickups. But navigating the Craigslist marketplace and ensuring you’re getting a good deal requires careful consideration. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from identifying potential gems to avoiding costly pitfalls.
Introduction 1987 Chevy Silverado 4×4 For Sale Craigslist: A Buyer’s Guide to a Classic
I. Why a 1987 Chevy Silverado 4×4?
The 1987 Chevy Silverado 4×4 sits at a sweet spot. It’s the last year of the square-body generation, known for its robust build and simple mechanics. These trucks are relatively easy to work on, parts are still readily available, and they offer a classic aesthetic that resonates with enthusiasts. The 4×4 capability adds to their appeal, making them perfect for off-roading, hauling, or simply navigating challenging weather conditions. Plus, their growing rarity makes them potential collector’s items.
Craigslist can be a wild west, but with a strategic approach, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect 1987 Silverado:
- Refine Your Search: Use specific keywords like "1987 Chevy Silverado 4×4," "Squarebody Chevy 4×4," or even specific trim levels like "Silverado Scottsdale 4×4." Include your geographic area and expand it gradually if needed.
- Set Alerts: Craigslist doesn’t have built-in alerts, but services like IFTTT or dedicated Craigslist search tools can notify you when new listings matching your criteria appear. Speed is key – good deals don’t last long.
- Scrutinize Listings: Pay close attention to the description. Vague descriptions, poor-quality photos, and unusual pricing are red flags. Look for listings that include details about the truck’s condition, mileage, maintenance history, and any modifications.
- Beware of Scams: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of sellers who are unwilling to meet in person, demand payment via wire transfer, or pressure you to buy immediately.
III. The Inspection: Digging Deeper Than the Paint
Once you find a potential candidate, a thorough inspection is crucial. Here’s a checklist:
- Body Condition:
- Rust: This is the biggest enemy of these trucks. Check the rocker panels, cab corners, bed sides, floorboards, and around the wheel wells. Use a magnet to detect filler hidden beneath paint.
- Dents and Scratches: Assess the severity and cost of repairs. Minor cosmetic issues are expected on a truck of this age, but significant damage can indicate neglect or accidents.
- Paint: Is it original? If repainted, was it done professionally? Look for overspray, mismatched colors, and signs of poor prep work.
- Engine and Mechanicals:
- Start-Up: Does the engine start easily and idle smoothly? Listen for unusual noises like knocking or ticking.
- Fluid Leaks: Check for leaks under the truck and under the hood. Pay particular attention to the engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid.
- Transmission: Shift through all the gears (both forward and reverse). Look for smooth transitions and listen for any grinding or slipping.
- 4×4 System: Engage and disengage the 4×4 system. Make sure it engages smoothly and that the indicator light illuminates properly. Listen for any unusual noises.
- Suspension: Inspect the shocks, springs, and bushings for wear and tear. Bounce the truck to check for excessive movement or squeaking.
- Brakes: Check the brake pedal for firmness and responsiveness. Inspect the brake lines and calipers for leaks or corrosion.
- Exhaust: Look for rust or leaks in the exhaust system. Listen for unusual noises like hissing or rattling.
- Interior:
- Seats: Check for rips, tears, and excessive wear.
- Dashboard: Look for cracks or fading.
- Gauges: Make sure all the gauges are working properly.
- Electronics: Test the lights, wipers, radio, and other electrical components.
- Test Drive: A thorough test drive is essential. Pay attention to how the truck handles, accelerates, and brakes. Listen for any unusual noises and feel for any vibrations.
IV. Negotiation and Paperwork: Sealing the Deal
- Research Market Value: Before making an offer, research the market value of similar 1987 Silverado 4x4s in your area. Consider the truck’s condition, mileage, and features when determining its worth. Websites like NADAguides and Kelley Blue Book can provide valuable insights.
- Be Prepared to Walk Away: Don’t get emotionally attached to a truck. If the seller is unwilling to negotiate or address your concerns, be prepared to walk away. There are plenty of other fish in the sea (or trucks on Craigslist).
- **Inspect the