The 1976 GMC Sprint may not be as well-known as its Chevy cousin, the El Camino, but it shares the same DNA—and arguably, even more cool factor. With the muscle of a mid-‘70s A-body and the utility of a truck bed, the Sprint was built for drivers who wanted to haul and haul ass. Whether you’re restoring a rare Sprint SP or just keeping your standard model alive, this guide walks through the most important 1976 GMC Sprint parts to check, replace, or upgrade.

The 1976 model marked the end of the line for the GMC Sprint, which would be rebadged as the Caballero in 1978. Built on the Chevelle chassis, it came with engine options ranging from a 250ci inline-six to a 454ci V8—though the big block was rare by ’76 due to tightening emissions rules.

Fun stat: Only around 10,000 GMC Sprints were made in 1976, making this final-year model a low-production collectible today.

That rarity means restoration projects need to be part detective work, part hands-on grit.

Suspension and Steering
The Sprint uses standard GM A-body suspension components, but after 40+ years, most are toast.
Replace or inspect:

• Upper and lower control arm bushings
  
• Coil springs (especially rear)
  
• Shocks (all four corners)
  
• Ball joints and tie rods
  
• Idler arm and center link

Brakes
You’ve got front disc and rear drum brakes from the factory. A full rebuild is usually the first move.
Expect to replace:

• Front pads, rotors, and calipers
  
• Rear drums, shoes, and hardware
  
• Master cylinder
  
• Proportioning valve (often overlooked)
• Steel and rubber brake lines

Fuel System
Most fuel system failures in these cars are from age or old gas.
Common replacements:

• Fuel tank (check for rust and leaks)
  
• Sending unit and gasket
  
• Fuel pump (mechanical)
  
• Carburetor rebuild or modern EFI swap
• Hard fuel lines and rubber hose sections

Cooling System
Whether it’s a small-block or a big-block under the hood, these cars need good cooling.
Refresh:

• Radiator (aluminum upgrades are a smart choice)
  
• Thermostat
  
• Water pump
  
• Fan clutch or electric fan conversion
• Overflow tank and cap

Transmission & Driveline
These were bulletproof when maintained—but worn bushings and seals are expected.
Watch for:

• Rear axle seals
  
• Driveshaft U-joints
  
• Transmission mount
  
• Shift linkage wear or slop
  
• Rear diff fluid leaks or noise

Finding good original interior parts can be a challenge, but there’s some crossover with Chevelle and El Camino parts.
Likely replacements:

• Seat upholstery and foam
  
• Door panels and armrests
  
• Dash pad or overlay
  
• Window regulators and cranks
• Weatherstripping and sill plates

Check the frame rails at the rear wheel wells for rust—this is a known weak spot on these cars.
The rear suspension setup is the same as many GM cars of the era—great for parts availability.
SP models had special trim and badging that’s very hard to replace—don’t toss anything original.

Want to keep it looking stock but driving better? Here’s where many Sprint owners start:

• Front and rear sway bar upgrades
  
• Polyurethane bushings for the suspension
  
• Modern ignition or HEI upgrade
  
• Retro-style radio with Bluetooth
  
• Hidden EFI system (e.g. Sniper or FiTech) to replace the carb

Because of the low production numbers, many Sprint-specific parts aren’t easy to come by—but there’s good news. Much of what you’ll need is shared with Chevelles, El Caminos, and GM A-bodies from the same era. At Classic Parts Pro, we’re working to gather those compatible pieces (and a few Sprint-specific ones) into one spot so you don’t have to hunt across three forums and a swap meet.

Need help identifying something weird? Reach out. We love the rare stuff—and we’re always on the lookout for Sprint parts in the wild.

The 1976 GMC Sprint isn’t just a curiosity—it’s a full-on classic with muscle car roots and truck bed utility. Whether you’re keeping one running or bringing it back from the brink, CPP is here to help with the parts, advice, and support you need to do it right.