Chevy 1-ton trucks made in 1981 feature one of two engine options. One engine option features eight-cylinders and a 350-cubic-inch displacement. This engine is a gas-powered engine. Other Chevy 1-ton models made in this year feature an eight-cylinder, 454-cubic-inch engine that runs on gasoline also.
1981 Chevy 1-ton trucks that have been fitted with the 350 cubic-inch engine offer 160 horsepower and 260 foot-pounds torque. Models with the 454-cubic-inch engine offer 230 horsepower and 360 foot-pounds of torque.
Consumers have access to 1981 Chevy 1-ton trucks that are fitted with either a four-speed, manual transmission system or a three-speed, automatic transmission system. The transfer case on these vehicles is made out of cast iron.