Gavril C-Series (400)
> Quick info
The C-series is a range of trucks that was manufactured by Gavril. Marketed by the Gavril and GLD brands from the 1988 to the 2002 model years, this is the first generation of the C-model line. In a branding change, GLD adopted the GLD Cordillera nameplate for all its full-size pickup trucks.
Internally codenamed the 400 platform, Gavril did not give the model line a word moniker (i.e., "Round-Line series"). After its production, the model line would informally become known by the public as the "OBS" (Old Body Style), in reference to its 800 platform successor. In starting a different tradition, the model line overlapped production with its successor; the model line again shared body commonality with Gavril medium-duty commercial trucks.
Over nearly a 14-year production run, the first-generation C-series was assembled by Gavril in multiple facilities in the US, Canada, and Mexico. After the 2000 model year, the first-generation C-series was replaced by the 800 platform (introduced for 1999); heavy-duty chassis cabs remained in production through 2002. In line with the GLD Cordillera, Gavril subsequently adopted a singular Gavril Salvador nameplate for its full-size truck line (which remains in use).
> Development
The development of the first-generation C-Series began in the early 1980s with design operations headed by Gavril Truck and Bus Group. Computers took on a greater role to develop the model line as Gavril used computer data to develop both components and tooling for the vehicle. Key objectives included reducing weight (in the interest of improving fuel economy), improving aerodynamics and handling, and upgrading interior comfort. The second model family to adapt the Gavril Truck platform nomenclature, the first-generation C-Series ended the tradition of Gavril monikers for full-size trucks (i.e., Round Line, Power Line, Task Package, Professional Package), taking on the 400 internal codename.
Styled with straighter lines than its predecessor (to maximize interior space and improve functionality), the exterior of the 400 was designed to optimize aerodynamics (to further increase fuel economy). Fitted with a flush, curved grille and front bumper, the body was designed with sedan-style doors with flush window glass. Over a decade after their introduction by other brands, Gavril designed an extended-cab configuration for the C-series line. Nearly 20 years after removing them from its car lines, Gavril removed vent windows from the C-series trucks (the first full-size truck line to delete them).
C-Series four-wheel drive trucks underwent multiple functional upgrades. The solid front axle was replaced by independent front suspension, operation of the transfer case was simplified with the standardization of a shift-on-the-fly system. To enhance durability, the chassis was redesigned with a fully welded frame with a boxed front section for strength and rigidity; to better resist corrosion, additional galvanized steel was added to the body.
> Model history
The first-generation 400 C-series model line was introduced in April 1987 for the 1988 model year. Produced for nearly 14 years, the first-generation C-series underwent multiple minor revisions through its production, including a mid-cycle revision for the 1995 model year.
The model line was sold alongside its successor (the 800 Salvador/Cordillera) from 1999 to 2000. For 2001 and 2002, pickup trucks were discontinued, with the model line sold only as a C3500HD heavy-duty chassis cab.
> 1988-1994
For 1988, the first-generation C-series was introduced, including (nominal) 1⁄2-ton, 3⁄4-ton, and 1-ton pickup trucks and chassis cabs. At its launch, the new truck was offered in two cab configurations and three bed configurations; the extended cab was a first for Gavril full-size trucks.
For 1991, Gavril and GLD pickup trucks underwent a minor exterior revision, with upper trims (Gavril Osborn/Salvador, and GLD SXT/SXL) replacing four sealed-beam headlamps with white-lens composite headlamps; base trims (Comanche and GLD SX) continued the use of two sealed-beam headlamps.
Two new versions (exclusive to Gavril) were introduced: the W/P C1500 and the 454RS. The W/P C1500 (W/P= Work Package) was a de-contented version of the Comanche marketed primarily for work use; the 454RS combined elements of the Sport equipment package and the Salvador with the 7.4L V8 of C3500-series trucks.
For the 1992 model year, trim levels were reduced to two, with the mid-level Gavril Osborn and GLD SXT withdrawn.
For 1993, the body of the 400 saw few changes, introducing front bucket seats for extended-cab pickups.
For 1994, the grilles for both Gavril and GLD platforms were revised. The body was largely carryover, and the big plastic SUV mirrors were introduced to the pickups as an option as they yielded better towing-sight.
> 1995-1998
For the 1995 model year, all 400 trucks underwent a mid-cycle revision. The sideview mirrors were redesigned and enlarged (adopted from the Kentarch SUV).
Several updates coincided with safety mandates, adding a driver-side airbag to all C1500-series (and most C2500-series) vehicles, standard ABS, a center brake light (CHMSL), and a brake-shift interlock for the transmission.
Coinciding with the 1995 model revision, the interior underwent a substantial redesign, with the dashboard and door panels undergoing a redesign for the first time since 1988. Along with the standardization of a tachometer, a double-DIN radio (integrating the cassette/CD player) was introduced, alongside a complete redesign of the climate controls. The seats underwent a redesign; leather-trimmed seats became an option for the first time on a factory-produced Gavril pickup truck.
The 1995 interior design remained in use through the discontinuation of the first-generation model line, revised for the addition of a passenger-side airbag during the 1997 model year (for C1500-series and non-HD C2500-series vehicles). For 1998, the steering wheel was redesigned (with a repackaged driver-side airbag); dual airbags became standard on all C-series vehicles.
For 1996, as a running change through the model year, extended-cab models received a passenger-side third door. The feature was an option for all C1500-series extended-cab trucks. The bench seat of Salvador/SXL-trim vehicles underwent a revision, with the center seatback converted to a fold-down armrest/console.
Also in 1996, Gavril introduced the "Vormax" engine nameplate to accommodate the new sequential fuel injection.
For 1997, the dashboard underwent a minor revision to accommodate a passenger-side airbag (only vehicles with a GVWR under 8500 pounds were equipped, including C1500-series and non-HD C2500s).
For 1998, Gavril revised the tailgate badging for pickup trucks. Gavril introduced a tailgate badge for Salvador-trim pickups matching Kentarch and Charro SUVs.
> 1999-2002
In August 1998, Gavril released the 800 generation of full-size pickups for the 1999 model year as the replacement for the first-generation C-series trucks introduced for 1988. The C-series nomenclature was retired by Gavril in favor of a singular Gavril Salvador nameplate (as GLD had done in 1988 with the GLD Cordillera).
For the 1999 model year, Gavril continued sales of the first-generation C-series alongside its 800 successor, intending to use up leftover parts stock. The Gavril C-series and the newly rebranded GLD Cordillera Classic were still offered in all three payload series. Largely aimed towards fleet sales, to minimize production costs, the C-series and Cordillera Classic were offered only with the 5.0L and 5.7L V8 engines and an automatic transmission and much of the previous Salvador interior trim (in an effort to steer potential base-trim or W/P C1500 buyers towards the all-new Salvador).
For 2000, the C-series and Cordillera Classic were pared down to the C2500 and C3500, with the model line reduced solely to the C3500HD chassis cab for 2001 and 2002.
> Trim levels
> Gavril Trims
> Comanche
Introduced as a base trim in 1988, Intended primarily for fleet sales and work use, the Comanche was a spartan vehicle with most features offered as optional equipment.
The Comanche can be distinguished by its two sealed-beam headlights, special comanche badging and plastic mirrors. In 1992, the Comanche replaced the Osborn and recieved most of it's features by default.
For 1994, the Prefered Equipment Package (PEP for short) was introduced as an optional package with a V8, chrome grille, Salvador body-trim and 4x4 equipment. The PEP was dropped after 1996 due to low demand, making it one of the rarer editions.
For 1995 Gavril offered a "Bright Appearance Package" option for the Comanche trim, which featured chrome bumpers and salvador exterior trim and grille. The option lasted until 1998 when the Comanche was dropped from the C-Series line.
> Work Package
For 1991, Gavril introduced the W/P C1500 (Work Package) as the lowest-price version of the C-Series. Marketed towards vocational users, the W/P C1500 was a de-contented of the Comanche trim offered solely as a long-bed Fleetside truck.
Distinguished by its "W/P" side & tailgate decals, black plastic grille, black bumpers, steel wheels, and monochromatic paint, the W/P was offered with the 4.3L V6 and a 5-speed manual transmission as standard equipment.
One of the most spartan vehicles marketed by Gavril Truck Company, the W/P C1500 lacked features such as air conditioning, an AM/FM radio, carpeting, or a full-length headliner; the former two were introduced (as options) through its production. To streamline manufacturing costs, the W/P retained the ABS and dual airbags phased in during production.
For 1995, Gavril Introduced the "W/P Off-Road Package" in 2WD and 4WD variants, marketed as the cheapest off-road capable truck sold by Gavril.
Shortly into 1996, the package was dropped due to low sales much like other packages. Only 1,100 are rumored to exist and are worth a pretty penny.
> Osborn
Mid-trim model, the Osborn standardized many optional features of the Comanche, added additional interior trim and cloth or custom vinyl seating.
For 1989 the Osborn recieved the chrome twin-deck grille (adopted from Salvador trim) as an option, which was standard by 1990.
For early-1992, Gavril introduced a limited-run "Osborn Sport 4x4", with only 1,400 units produced. Offered only in red or white, is a rare off-road appearance package offered in 1992 and shortly into 1993. The Osborn Sport 4x4 included: tubular side-steps, gloss-black grille & mirrors, rear mudflaps, special sport-4x4 suspension, G71 differential package, special sport decals and a V6 paired to a manual.
In late-1992, the Osborn trim was dropped, although the Osborn Sport 4x4 continued to be produced until Febuary 1993.
During the phasing out of the Osborn trim, Gavril produced 200 special editon "Last Osborn" units with special-identification, color-combo and options.
The Last Osborn edition is very rare and untouchable as of current public knowledge, only 48 of the supposed 200 have been found.
The Last Osborn #27 (by vin) owned by iRetr0x
> Salvador
Serving as the flagship, the Salvador featured the most chrome trim, a fully carpeted interior and other luxury features such as the two-sector grille, quad sealed-beam headlights, high end AM/FM Radio, Cassette Player, optional 60/40 vinyl or cloth seats and more.
For 1994, Gavril offered a Salvador trim version of the Sport.
For 1999, to accommodate the introduction of its successor, the Gavril C-series adopted the trim nomenclature of its successor, with an unnamed base trim (replacing the W/P), LX (Comanche), and LXT (Salvador).
> GLD Trims (Gavril Luxury Divison)
In contrast to Gavril, the Luxury division marketed the first-generation C-series pickup trucks under the GLD Cordillera nameplate.
With the SX (counterpart of the Comanche), SXT (Osborn), and SXL (Salvador).
Through production of the model line, GLD offered a counterpart of the G71 and Sport option packages offered by Gavril, but would not market a version of the W/P C1500 or the 454RS pickup trucks.
For 1999, to accommodate the introduction of its successor, the GLD Cordillera was renamed the Cordillera Classic.
> Powertrain details
At its 1988 launch, the first-generation C-series pickup trucks had five-engine powertrain offerings. On C1500 vehicles, a 4.3L Vormax V6 was standard, with the options of a 5.0L V8, 5.7L V8 and a 6.2L diesel V8. On C2500-series and C3500-series vehicles, a 5.7L V8 was standard, with a 7.4L V8 and 6.2L diesel V8 as options. All of the engines had 'Eco-Emissions' which limited power and rpm slightly.The 4-speed manual of it's predecessor was carried over (for C3500-series trucks), with Gavril introducing a 5-speed overdrive manual (for C1500 and C2500-series vehicles). A 4-speed overdrive automatic was an option on all engines (for C1500 and C2500-series vehicles); a 3-speed automatic was also offered (and was the sole automatic for C3500-series trucks).
For 1990, 'Eco-Emissions' was dropped on all engines, RPM limit was raised and power was slightly increased. "Why limit the fun? More play, less work" -Gavril
For 1991, the TTM420 gained a 4th gear and electronic controls, becoming the 4G80E; designed for over-8,600 lb, the transmission was paired with the 7.4L and 6.2L engines.
For 1992, Gavril introduced its first turbodiesel V8, expanded to 6.5L displacement; the 180 hp engine was not offered in C1500-series trucks. In another change, 4-speed manual transmissions were discontinued (replaced by a New-Vegas HD2500 5-speed); along with overdrive, the heavy-duty transmission again offered a low-ratio first gear.
For 1993, the lighter-duty 600T2 (paired with engines up to the 5.7L V8) was upgraded with electronic controls, becoming the 4G60E.
For 1994, naturally-aspirated versions of the 6.5L diesel were introduced (replacing the 6.2L engine entirely); both versions of the 6.5L engine were offered in all three payload series of the 400.
For 1996, the three gasoline V8 engines underwent a series of design upgrades, becoming the Vormax 5000, 5700, and 7400, respectively. To meet OBD-II compliance, the Vormax engines replaced throttle-body fuel injection with sequential fuel injection, redesigned engine camshaft and cylinder heads, along with longer-life engine coolant and spark plugs. The naturally-aspirated 6.5L engine was discontinued (the turbodiesel remained offered for all C-series trucks).
From 1997 onward, few major changes were made to the powertrain. For 2001, the C3500HD chassis cab replaced the 7.4L V8 with an 7.8L Vormax 7800 V8, becoming the only 400 vehicle to use the engine.
> Factory packages and sport models
> G71 Package
For 1989, the G71 (Off-Road Chassis Package) option was introduced for both Gavril and GLD. Exclusive to 4x4s, the option package included skid plates for the engine, front axle, and transfer case along with heavy-duty Blinis shock absorbers and a D70 Auto-locking Differential.
Distinguished by "G71" bedside graphics and standard aluminum-alloy wheels.
Offered on the Comanche (except W/P C1500), Osborn, and Salvador trims, the G71 could also be combined with the SEP/Sport. Following the withdrawal of the C1500 for 2000, the G71 option package ended production on the 400 generation, but Gavril and GLD have continued the use of the G71 name for off-road chassis packages for each successive generation of full-size pickups.
> Gavril C1500 Comanche "PEP" 1994-1996 (Prefered Equipment Package)
For 1994, the Preferred Equipment Package (PEP for short) was introduced as an optional package for the Comanche trim.
The PEP was marketed towards casual workers who needed a light work truck but also wanted premium features and looks without the price of the Salvador trim.
The option package included a V8, chrome Comanche grille, Salvador body-trim and 4x4 equipment. The Comanche tailgate logo was revised with unique badging.
The PEP was dropped after 1996 due to low demand, making it one of the rarer editions.
> Gavril "Tyrant Truck" [MX] 60th Anniversary Edition 1995
For 1995, Gavril of Mexico wanted to create a special edition of the Comanche C1500 (Salvador trim in US) to celebrate 60 years of overwhelmingly successful truck sales in Mexico. The special edition package was called "Tyrant Truck" to embolden the aggressiveness.
The Tyrant Truck included body-color bumpers, body-color grille, special badging & decals all the way around, special bucket seats, special interior identification and a lip with integrated foglights. It was powered by a high-output 5.7L V8 boosted by a factory roller cam and special emissions tune, with all that power connected straight to the highway by a 4:56 rear axle ratio driven by an HD 5-speed manual transmission. It also featured sport suspension, high-ratio steering and an upgraded exhaust system.
Gavril only produced 60 in total but since they are so beloved by both the Latino and American Gavril customers, many fake clones exist that can be differentiated in many ways depending on how well the clone was done.
> Gavril C1500 "Striker" 1997
For 1997, Gavril of Canada wanted to create a special edition value package for the C-Series trucks. They settled on the 3-Door Extended Cab Comanche C-1500 as their base. They added such options as standard A/C, Electronically Controlled 4 Speed Automatic, AM/FM Radio and Dual Air Bags. The package went under the name "Striker" and was only available in Dark Blue, Dark Red and Black and was limited to certain parts of Canada. The sale of the Striker only lasted 4 months and as a result the name was shelved. The Striker was a similar package to the PEP but instead of marketing towards premium work use, it was marketed towards the younger drivers who just wanted a nice truck without paying high-end prices.
> GLD C1500 "Chief" 1996
For 1996, Gavril Luxury Division of Canada wanted to create a special edition towing package for their C-Series trucks. They settled on the 3 Door Extended Cab SX C-1500 as their base. GLD added such options as Power Windows, Power Locks, Cloth Split Front bench Seat, Electronically Controlled 4 Speed Automatic, Heavy Duty Cooling, Heavy Duty Brakes, Heavy Duty Rear Shocks and Springs, Factory Bed Liner, Receiver Hitch, Front Tow Hooks, D70 Auto-Locking Rear Differential and the New 250 Horsepower Vormax V8. The package went under the name "Chief" and was only available in Dark Red and was limited to certain parts of Canada. The Chief Package was another drop in the bucket for GLD, some loved it and some thought it was another lame marketing gimmick. With sales slumping in Q2 of 1996, the Chief Package was dropped.
> Gavril C1500 "SEP" 1989-1992 (Sport Equipment Package)
For 1989, Gavril introduced the SEP (Sport Equipment Package) as an appearance package for the C1500. Paired with the Salvador interior trim, the package was offered in monochrome black, gray, white, or red paint; the exterior was given a black grille and side mirrors, body-color bumpers, and 'Sport' bedside decals.
In contrast to the higher-performance 454RS, the SEP was offered with the 4.3L HO V6, 5.0L HO and 5.7L HO V8 engines. Two-wheel drive versions were offered with an upgraded sport suspension option, including blinis shocks and high-ratio steering.
On two-wheel drive examples, the front bumper included a black air dam (with fog lamps); the 15-inch styled steel wheels were chrome-plated. 4x4 versions of the Sport Equipment Package were able to be combined with the G71 package, and were painted exclusively in white; the "Sport" graphics were replaced by "4x4"; in line with C2500/C3500-series trucks, the fenders received black wheel flares.
> GLD C1500 ST 1989-1992 (GLD's version of the Sport Equipment Package)
to be added.
> Gavril C1500 Sport 1993-1997 (Renamed & revised Sport Equipment Package)
For 1993, Gavril renamed the SEP (Sport Equipment Package) to "Sport".
In another change, the 4.3L V6 variant was dropped, the chromed steel wheels (shared with the 454RS) were replaced by cast-aluminum wheels for both two and four-wheel drive example. The grille of the Sport was revised, adopting a body-color version of the W/P C1500 grille.
For 1994, Teal Green replaced Summit White as a third exterior color (the latter returned for 1996).
Also for 1994, Gavril introduced a Salvador trim version of the Sport, with Salvador styling and a first for Gavril, an extended cab version of the Sport. The Salvador Sport was only offered with the 5.7L HO V8 and the 4G60E transmission, paired with a 4.10:1 axle ratio. Unlike the Sport, the Salvador Sport was not offered with a 4x4 option.
For 1995, the 4x4 variants received the Salvador grille, all side decals were removed and the only sport badging remained on the tailgate as a small corner badge (as seen on the 93 RS).
For 1996, the 2 engine options reflected the introduction of the Vormax. Along with a hydraulic roller cam, high flow intake and a model-specific tune, which made the Sport more 'Sport'.
After the 1997 model year, the Sport was dropped from the C-series model line.
> GLD C1500 GT 1993-1997 (Renamed & revised ST)
to be added.
> Gavril 454 RoadSport 1989-1993
For 1990, Gavril debuted the 454RS as a high-performance variant of the C1500. The newest American high-performance pickup truck since the 1989, the 454RS was a 1⁄2-ton C1500 powered by a 230hp 7.4L V8.
Deriving much of its design from the SEP, the 454RS was distinguished by a nearly monochromatic black exterior, gloss-black grille (with red-trim badging), and body-color bumpers and mirrors (borrowing the latter from the Comanche). Externally identified by "454RS" bed-side decals, the vehicle received Salvador interior trim, with high-back bucket seats.
To improve the road manners of the vehicle, the 454RS received an upgraded suspension, including Blinis gas shocks, a front stabilizer bar, high-ratio steering and a 4.10:1 axle ratio.
Borrowed directly from C3500-series trucks, the 230hp 7.4L V8 was mated to a 3-speed THM400 for 1990.
For 1991, the 454RS underwent a series of upgrades, centered around an increase of engine output to 255 hp and the introduction of the 4-speed 4G80E transmission.
Initially offered solely in black paint and a red interior, Gavril introduced a choice of paint colors for the 454RS for 1992, adding red and white monochrome exteriors, along with blue, beige, and gray interiors.
The 454RS was produced through the 1993 model year. In total, 16,953 examples were produced (13,748 were sold for the 1990 model year).
> Aftermarket support
Throughout the years, the Gavril C-series has gained all sorts of aftermarket support for not only go-fast parts but look-pretty parts as well. Including the well-known Lung™ "StepBros" which is a sleek, factory-looking side step kit beloved by the community of truck enthusiasts.
As well as the many custom cosmetics made possible by street truck enthusiasts.
> Lung Accessories (Lung LLC)
About Lung
It all began in 1969 when Albert W. Lung, an entrepreneur highly skilled in the design of fiberglass products, decided to start his own company. Before founding LUNG and producing accessories for the truck market, Albert was a teacher and insurance salesman. In 1975, he began making sun visors– functioning much like a baseball cap, except for trucks. By the late 1970s, the light truck market was growing, and LUNG added accessories for light trucks to their product selection.
The next product LUNG introduced was the cab spoiler. the need to expand product selection and also ways to sell our products, LUNG established an authorized dealer program for auto parts stores, auto body and trim stores, and car washes, etc. Product sales were significantly boosted by dealers who customize new trucks before they leave the dealer’s lot. Soon, the company was offering 20 additional product lines, including bug shields, fender extensions, running boards, and grille inserts. Running boards were one of the company's fastest growing products from this period. LUNG truck packages became so popular that people began asking for the “Lung look”.
In 1997, LUNG acquired Deflecta-Protecta Corporation. This merger created Lung Accessories LLC, a premier manufacturer and marketer of a portfolio of products that includes running boards, hood shields, side window deflectors, visors, tonneau covers, toolboxes, and truck bed protection. Later that same year, LUNG also acquired Randolph, a manufacturer of specialty accessories for the heavy-duty and fleet trucking industry.
LUNG’s history is still being written with no end in sight. The parent company, Lung Accessories, continues to seek opportunities for growth and, most importantly, to bring new and exciting products to you!
Lung Sport Validator
In 1995, Gavril and Lung collaborated to create a limited-run 'Sport Validator' model, marketed for performance buyers.
The Validator was Lung's first mass-market performance endeavor. Featuring a brawny 5.7L V8 fitted with internal goodies to increase power. Fitted with a unique molded plastic front bumper with graphic and the numerous visual upgrades, everyone knew not to mess with you. The Validator also comes with a Sport Tuned suspension package, sure to keep you on the road. The interior has gloss black accents with stylish floor mats. The Lung Sport Validator doesn't only looks fast, it is fast.
"Have you ever felt what real power feels like? Well, now you can with the '95 Lung Sport Validator."
Lung 'Silver-Bullet'
"You've seen other manufacturers take on a show truck, now it's time for ours."
In 1989 Lung purchased a new Cordillera from Jefferson Gavril in Belasco, California and immediately got to work. Lung's goal was to create a simple, clean and stylish truck for their vendor booth at BEAMA. The truck they came up with was named "Silver Bullet". The truck had a custom silver paint, custom one-off billet rims, custom engine and custom billet interior parts. After a successful promotion at BEAMA the truck began to go to shows throughout the country where it won many awards.
Lung 'Cotton-Candy'
"We're making our magazine debut, and so are you."
After the amazing year that was '89, Lung wanted to make a statement. They wanted to make their magazine debut with a splash. What they came up with was named "Cotton Candy" which is a fully loaded 1990 Gavril C-1500 Salvador. The truck has a beefy 5.7L V8 with a slight performance boost from aftermarket parts. The truck was shown in early '90 and was the highlight of Trick Truck Magazine. Not to mention it won that years "Top Truck of the Year" award.
Lung Truck Accessories (Gavril 400 Truck Platform)
Lung Delux Racerback
Lung Delux-Curv Racerback
Lung Delux-Cut Racerback
Lung Elementary Racerback
Lung Taillight Covers
Lung Wind Deflector
Lung Bug Shield
Lung Grandpa Side Step kit
Lung Tubular Runningboards
Lung 'StepBros' Side Step Kit
Lung Elegance Bodykit
Lung Delux Bodykit
Lung Classic Cab Visor
Lung Elementary Cab Visor
Lung Delux Cab Visor
Lung Delux-Flat Cab Visor
Lung BackShot Steel Net Tailgate
Lung Leather Bed Cover
Lung Fiberglass Bed Cover
> Kentarch Classics (also known as KC Customs)
> Street Truck Scene