LED Taillight Install for 1967-1972 Fleetside C10

The taillights on your classic Chevy C10 have probably seen better days. They may be rusty, worn-out, or missing completely. But even if the taillights on your C10 are still in good condition, you may have noticed they’re pretty dim. In this guide, we'll show you how to upgrade your old taillights to new LEDs in about an hour.

Step-by-Step Instructions

For this installation, we chose these sequential LED taillights for 1967-1972 Fleetside C10s. With 20 LED lights built-in, they’ll be much brighter than stock. The sequential effect can also add a nice modern touch to your classic truck.

These taillight assemblies are sold individually, so they’re not side-specific. You can adjust the sequential setting to the left or right using a switch on the back of the taillight. Keep the switch in the middle if you prefer the regular style instead of sequential.

Required Tools:

• Phillips Screwdriver
• Slotted Screwdriver
• 5/16” Socket

Step 1: Remove Bottom & Top Screws

Starting on one side, remove the bottom screw first using a Phillips screwdriver. Don’t worry about keeping these screws as the new taillights come with some included. After the bottom screw is removed, move on to the top.

Step 2: Pop Off Lens

With the screws removed, just wiggle the lens and it should pop right off.

Step 3: Unscrew Taillight Housing

With the lens off, you can now remove the taillight housing. You don’t have to take the bulb out before removal. There are two screws you will need to remove: one above the housing and one underneath. Be sure to save those screws for the new taillight housing.

Step 4: Pull Housing Out from Frame

The taillight housing is attached to a wiring harness, so pull it away from the frame gently to avoid damaging the wires.

Step 5: Push Wiring Boot Back

Push back the boot covering the wire connection so you can disconnect the old taillight housing.

Step 6: Disconnect Wiring Harness

Gently use a slotted screwdriver to remove the clips attaching the wiring harness to the housing. Give it a wiggle and they should come right off. Be careful as the plastic on the wiring harness may be brittle.

Step 7: Reconnect Wiring to New Assembly

Grab the new housing and connect it to the wiring harness. You may need to rotate the plug to a vertical position before connecting.

Step 8: Slide Boot Back On

Once the wiring harness is attached, slide the boot back over the connection.

Step 9: Attach New Taillight Housing

Push the taillight housing back in place and attach using the original screws. Start with the bottom screw first. Make sure the top and bottom line up with the body before tightening the screws down. This will ensure the lens fits perfectly.

Step 10: Set Up New Taillight

There’s a switch on the back of the lens you’ll need to check before installing. Flip the switch toward the right side to set the sequential lighting for the right turn signal. Switch it to the left to set the sequential lights for the left turn signal. If you prefer the original style to the sequential turn signals, keep the switch in the middle position.

Step 11: Connect New Taillight

Next, you’ll need to connect the new taillight lens to the housing. Where the lens connection plugs into the housing, there are two little bumps. One is higher and one is lower, so there’s only one way to plug it in. There’s a spot where you can insert a slotted screwdriver into the plug for better leverage. Use the screwdriver to slide the plug in, push down, and turn clockwise.

Step 12: Install Gasket

Before you finish attaching the taillight, you need to install the gasket. Slide the gasket around the taillight and into the proper position. This will keep everything nice and sealed.

Step 13: Attach Taillight Lens

With the gasket in place, you can now attach the taillight lens. Use a Phillips screwdriver and the included screws to secure the lens to the housing. The lens is plastic, so don’t tighten the screws too much. A snug fit will get the job done.

Step 14: Repeat Process on Other Side

Repeat the exact same process on the other side to complete the installation. If you’re using the sequential lighting feature, just be sure to flip the switch to the appropriate side.

Considerations for Your Taillight Install

Although they’re a small component, taillights can have a big effect on your build. Replacing any dingy or broken taillights with LED alternatives will brighten things up, literally and figuratively. And while you’re at it, here are some other quick but impactful upgrades you can make to your C10:

• C10 Headlight Upgrades
• Front and Rear Bumper Install for a 1967-1970 C10

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Please Note: This guide is a tool to help you install parts on your vehicle. If you don’t feel confident performing this installation on your own, please have a professional install the parts for you.