Chevrolet Cheyenne Pickup Truck (1980): A way of life for Johannes

This American workhorse really deserves the spotlight because of its impeccable condition – an example of a top restoration! It deserves attention and will appeal to many enthusiasts. “It looks colored on it”, a statement that is often open to multiple interpretations, but in this case it clearly refers to the beautiful condition of this Chevrolet Cheyenne.

Chevrolet Cheyenne, From workhorse to show horse

The American originally came from California, but was purchased in Germany. There it stood exposed to the elements for years, resulting in a patina finish, flash rust, scratches and dents, plus neglected technique. Johannes, working as a mobile damage repairer, fortunately had the necessary knowledge and skills. His trademark is craftsmanship: “What the eyes see, the hands make”.

Over the course of three years, the dents were 'spooned' out, the bodywork was professionally sprayed and the technique was completely put in order. The beautiful blue color radiates craftsmanship; it sparkles like a pearl on the road.

Full size Chevrolet Pickup Truck

In America, pickups – like this one Chevrolet pickup – extremely popular because of their reliability and versatility. In fact, the pickup truck is often seen as a typical American invention. Here in the Netherlands, however, you see them popping up more and more often. Johannes gave his classic a characteristic American touch by hanging the flag of the United States (Stars and Stripes) wide in the cabin. And… if you look closely in the hat, you can almost see the Wild West!

Chevrolet Cheyenne Pickup Truck

De Chevrolet Cheyenne is part of the well-known C/K series from General Motors, built between 1960 and 1998. In 1973, Chevrolet introduced the so-called “Square Body” generation, which remained in production until 1987. The Chevrolet Cheyenne was one of the trim levels that could be placed between the Custom/Deluxe and the Silverado, depending on the year of manufacture and configuration.

• Model year 1980: Around 1980, the Chevrolet Cheyenne was available in several engine variants, ranging from a 250 cubic inch (4,1 liter) straight-six to V8 blocks such as the 305 (5,0 liter) or 350 (5,7 liter). For real enthusiasts, there was also the 454 (7,4 liter) Big Block.
• Body: This model is known as a Full Size Pickup, meaning it has a large cargo bed and spacious cabin.
• Construction: This generation had a robust, angular shape (hence “Square Body”), loved by both working users and customizers and restorers.
• Capacity: Depending on the version, the loading platform could carry up to 1000 kg of cargo, making it a real workhorse.
• Popularity: According to various sources, including car magazines and webzines, this generation Chevrolet C/K is one of the most iconic American pickups ever made.

way of life

Johannes says: “For me, the interest in American cars has become a way of life. I am currently working on a Cadillac and have previously restored a pickup truck. The car is intended exclusively as a hobby car, but also as an eye-catcher for our company, MSH (Mobile Damage Repairer). On a summer day, driving a classic car is simply enjoyable. We often meet like-minded people along the way, but also people who are not enthusiasts and still appreciate the car. The journey becomes the destination again; it is that feeling of freedom that you experience.”

Whether you admire the graceful lines, appreciate the powerful engines or simply enjoy the authentic American feel – this Chevrolet Cheyenne Pickup Truck (1980) embodies for Johannes a life full of adventure and craftsmanship. A true 'way of life'.

(The story continues below with the photos.)