1A Auto identified the essential interior and exterior parts needed to transition a 1987 Chevy S10 from a work truck to a “fun” project vehicle. The audit focuses on replacing worn hardware, like tail lights and handles, while using cost-effective methods like vinyl spray to refresh the cabin. The 1987 Chevy S10 suits DIY restorers who want a functional project, while new truck buyers should look for current models with modern features.
Who should act on the S10 restoration audit and who can skip it
Readers who should act on the S10 restoration audit
- Owners of a 1982-1993 Chevy S10 should use this guide to identify which specific parts are common failure points or are easily replaced.
- DIY truck restorers should follow the advice on when to use vinyl spray versus replacing panels to save on costs.
- Project truck buyers should use the list to check for missing items like headliners and sunshades before purchasing a vehicle.
Readers who should skip the S10 restoration audit
- New truck buyers looking for financing should skip this guide and look at a truck buying guide or financing blog instead.
- Professional fleet mechanics should skip this audit and consult commercial fleet maintenance guides for high-volume service.
What to do next about the S10 restoration audit
- Inspect your tailgate to confirm the presence of linkages rather than cables.
- Check the passenger side window movement to see if the regulator needs replacement.
- Evaluate your door panels for cracking or dry-rotted surfaces before deciding on a vinyl spray finish.
The S10 utilizes a linkage-based tailgate system
The S10 utilizes a linkage-based tailgate, which uses mechanical rods rather than cables to operate the door. This design provides a more robust connection that transfers force directly through solid components. Think of a linkage as a rigid bicycle frame and a cable like a bicycle brake—one is built for structural integrity, the other for flexible tension. Because the linkage system is much sturdier than cable systems, it reduces the risk of the tailgate dropping or the cables stretching over time.
What are linkages?
Linkages are the mechanical rods or pivots used to operate a vehicle’s tailgate. These components provide a direct, sturdy connection that transfers force through solid metal rather than cables. Using a linkage-based system means the tailgate relies on mechanical leverage, which is generally more durable for heavy-duty use.
Exterior component audit for the 1987 Chevy S10
Replacing the tail lights is often more cost-effective than attempting to re-condition old units in rough shape. 1A Auto notes that the price on replacements is reasonable, making it a high-value swap for a clean look. Why spend hours sanding and painting a light when a new one is readily available? The truck’s exterior also requires a new tailgate handle because the current one is bent. S10 owners should also check the entry-level mirrors, which feature screws on the outside, and ensure any replacement emblems match the original exactly because the body stripes are painted and masked around them.
The front bumper may require attention if it shows signs of scale or rust. While some owners might consider welding or grinding, 1A Auto suggests using a black adhesive molding to fill and cover mounting holes. This method allows for a clean look without the risk of warping the bodywork. For the oil cap, 1A Auto recommends a full replacement because the factory units are known to break off in the hand during use.
Interior restoration and cabin upgrades
The interior of the S10 highlights several missing components, most notably the headliner and sunshades. Restorers must find a solution for these missing pieces as they cannot be left out of a finished project. The truck currently features a rubber mat that only covers half of the floor, though owners may consider upgrading to a full molded carpet for a more premium feel.
Weatherstripping on the doors requires attention, as the passenger side is currently torn. Replacing both the inner and outer seals ensures the cabin remains weather-tight. For the door panels, 1A Auto suggests a vinyl spray paint if the material is not cracked or dry-rotted. This allows the owner to bring back the original color without the high cost of replacing the entire panel. If the door panels are cracked, however, the spray will not adhere, and the owner will need to source new panels.
Functional repairs for S10 hardware
The passenger side window regulator is a necessary replacement because the window does not currently travel all the way down. Replacing this part is a low-cost win for functionality that is often overlooked in aesthetic-only restorations. The heater and headlight control switches should also be inspected for movement, though they may still be functional. For those seeking a more finished look, the seat springs are strong enough to support a new cloth cover, which upgrades the cabin from a work truck to a fun truck.
S10 restoration comparison and analysis
The S10 restoration highlights the distinction between functional durability and aesthetic preservation. The linkage-based tailgate is a mechanical advantage over the cable-based systems found in many other older trucks, providing a more durable platform for heavy use. Furthermore, the “delete” logic of the factory bumper teaches the reader how to identify a factory-correct look. If a bumper lacks provisions for molding, it was intended for a specific trim level. Choosing a “middle-ground” fix, such as adhesive moldings or vinyl spray, allows a DIY owner to progress the project without the cost of major bodywork or full-part replacements.
While the S10 is a popular project, owners often choose the Ford Ranger as a primary alternative in the compact truck market. A truck owner who chooses the S10 gains a specific checklist of interior and exterior parts to inspect, reducing the time spent on trial and error. Conversely, owners looking for “easy” fixes on broken tail lights lose the option of a cheap repair, as the source suggests replacement is the only viable path for rough units.
S10 restoration project scenario
Suppose Sarah owns a 1989 Chevy S10 that she bought as a project. She wants to improve the interior but isn’t sure if she can save the original parts. First, she checks the headliner and finds it missing, just like the truck in the video. She then inspects the door panels and finds they aren’t cracked, so she decides to use vinyl spray paint. She checks the tailgate and confirms it has linkages, meaning she doesn’t need to worry about cables. Finally, she checks the passenger side window and finds it sticks, so she adds a window regulator to her shopping list. Sarah creates a targeted parts list that saves her from replacing the door panels while ensuring the window and headliner issues are addressed. If Sarah’s door panels were cracked or dry-rotted, she would have to remove them from her “save” list and purchase new ones instead.
1A Auto has not provided prices for specific 1987 Chevy S10 restoration parts
- 1A Auto has not provided the specific price for the replacement tail lights.
- 1A Auto has not stated the cost of the new interior mirror.
- 1A Auto has not provided the price for the full molded carpeting.
- 1A Auto has not provided the cost of the bumper replacement.
Source: How Many More Parts Do We Need to Fix Our Project 1987 Chevy S10? (1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics Know).