1966 C10 frame-off, er, sorta - resto, but with IRS?
I picked up a decent condition 1966 C-10 that a friend was selling for a friend. I was looking for a project that my wife and I could work on together (and she really likes single-cab pickups).
It was a Utah truck until a few years ago, and it still is pretty rusty in places - but the frame and everything else is in great shape - well, that is, before I spent some time lying beneath it changing oil. Truck looks like it was hit fairly hard in the front end and had to have the doghouse replaced. Frame rails ahead of the front suspension crossmember are hosed - need to take it to a frame shop and see what they have to say about it. Truck goes down the road good - but the bed looks a bit tweaked. All-in-all, it is a 43 year-old truck, and **** happens. :D Hoping the frame is fine or can be easily fixed - I will probably cut out the bent parts and weld in new frame rails ahead of the engine. Here are some pictures: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...0/DSC_0816.jpg http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...0/DSC_0821.jpg http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...DSC_0810-1.jpg It's a plain-jane 66 C-10 with a 195 hp 283 driving the rear wheels through a (I think) Saginaw 4-speed. Single-circuit 4 wheel drum brakes (the parking brake still works!) I found the build sheet wedged between the seat foam and springs of my seatback - I have to take photos of it, cause it's so brittle I doubt I could get it out without ruining it. Plans:
Looking for a MIG welder to get the party started - Though some research on the H.A.M.B. led me to THIS. I just replaced the points/plugs/cap/wire/rotor/plugs/coil and it looks like #3 and #5 cylinders are pretty fouled. Good thind I just brought home a rebuilt 377 today. :devil: (standard bore 350 with a machined 400 crank). Tomorrow, I'm going to go grab a friend's cherry picker and engine stand and plan what gets torn down first - we'll keep driving it until the snow flies before we tear it down. |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Worked on a bit of the electrical system:
Wiring is a bit "custom" and the battery cables were in horrible shape - so I started out changing things I can w/o lots of work. teeny cables.... http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...s/DSC_0822.jpg Battery box in decent shape, http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...s/DSC_0826.jpg Cleaning everything with bicarbonate of soda: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...s/DSC_0829.jpg http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...s/DSC_0830.jpg Black hammer paint I had lying around - mostly just for short-term protection: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...s/DSC_0832.jpg Finished: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...s/DSC_0834.jpg http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...s/DSC_0835.jpg (please note polish anti-theft device) See ya! http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...s/DSC_0828.jpg One last thing - is a V8 tailpipe supposed to be this small? It sure is cute... :d: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...s/DSC_0844.jpg |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
I'm also trying to figure out which transmission I want to run with the stroker motor - I think the oem 4 speed might not like the power and it'll be a bit difficult to shift quickly (if needed ;) ).
Are there any manual transmissions out there we can put n these trucks and have the shifter in approximately the stock location? Thanks! |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
hi from michigan here to before i did all that work fixing that frame i would just find a different frame there around know where two short bed frames are but no long bed frames at the time good luck with the truck
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Welcome to the site- a lot of good info here. Looks like a great project.
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
:welcome2: from AZ. I love wire nuts and clamps when I open a hood:lol:. I would check the frame to see if its square across some of the x-members. Rolling around underneath it for awhile will allow you to judge how much your wife is into it!!
Dont know about your trans question...all autos here. |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Nice truck!
Here's hoping that your frame is straight so you can move on to the fun stuff! |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
I love the picture in the woods.
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Welcome to the board :D
By the look of things under the hood, it appears to be unmolested for the most part. Bummer about the frame. I agree that it may be better to get another frame.....that is if they are easy to find in your area. As for the trans, any other trans that has the same shifter location isn't going to shift much better than the SM420 that is most likely in there now. If quicker shifts are what you're after, then you will need to look for a car 4 speed. They will fit without a lot of work, although the shifter will be close to the seat. If your budget allows I would consider something like the Tremec 5 speeds. |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
cool build
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
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I've been building and riding bicycles for a long, long time, so I squirreled away some money, then built her this: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...a/DSC_0763.jpg In a nutshell, it is a long-travel "all-mountain" bike with disc brakes that weighs just over 22 lb. I used every trick I've learned from racing bikes and building them to build this (but was too heavy to use). And, um...the wire nut was my quick fix to repair something I messed up. heh heh - there was stray wires that led from the battery (with one being connected to that spring clamp) to the electric fan the P.O. put in for the woodward dream cruise. I cut both back, then learned the one line was the +12V for the whole truck! Of course, that will change, but alas - the wire nut was my doing for a couple of days. =) Quote:
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http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...0/DSC_0801.jpg http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...0/DSC_0817.jpg It's all in the angle.... =) Quote:
As for the trans - I was also thinking a NV4500 would be nice to have, just because it would be a 5 speed with a granny and an O.D. gear. I have no idea what gearing I have in the truck now - assuming it is stock, as everything else is. The biggest problem with using a different trans is the shifter needs to be far enough forward in the cab for my wife to move the seat forward when she drives. I'm not sure we'd have the option of a car transmission. Also, my wife HATES AUTOMATIC TRANMISSIONS!!! :hot: She really likes the gear whine of the stock box too - I tell her it's the only thing I've ever heard that whines more than her! ;) Quote:
Thanks for all the great responses. :) Scot |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Okay.
I now am the proud owner of a rebuilt 377 stroker that didn't come with the flywheel or damper - so I'm about to have the rotating assy balanced when I realized one thing: What problems am I going to run into with a different flywheel/clutch assy bolting this up to the stock SM420? I guess I'm in the dark about flywheel size/tooth count/clutch size (10.5"/11"/12"). I need to use a 400 SBC flywheel, as that is what is sitting in the 377. Any idears? :D Scot |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
what kind of 377
a 350 block or a 400 block i think the 400 block uses a 350 balancer and flywheel the crank should be internally balanced already and if you have a 350 block then you will use the 400 externally balnced stuff |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Welcome!! Cool build and pics.
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Welcome. I grew up right next door in Pinckney before I moved to San Diego about 6 1/2 years ago. I really miss the woods and seasons.
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
The SM420 with the stock cast iron bellhousing is designed to use the 168 tooth flywheel. The size of clutch will depend on how the flywheel is drilled. Some will accept a 12" clutch, others will only accept an 11" clutch.
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okay you will need to use a 400 balancer and flywheel |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
""It was a Utah truck until a few years ago, and it still is pretty rusty in places - but the frame and everything else is in great shape - well, that is, before I spent some time lying beneath it changing oil. Truck looks like it was hit fairly hard in the front end and had to have the doghouse replaced. Frame rails ahead of the front suspension crossmember are hosed - need to take it to a frame shop and see what they have to say about it. Truck goes down the road good - but the bed looks a bit tweaked. All-in-all, it is a 43 year-old truck, and **** happens. Hoping the frame is fine or can be easily fixed - I will probably cut out the bent parts and weld in new frame rails ahead of the engine.""
that more than likely explain the GMC grille ron |
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Well, today I started to tear down the engine I bought - these are the specs that were listed:
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These "new bearings" sure look funny... http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...r/DSC_0863.jpg Must have used a different gasket to do the matching... http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...r/DSC_0869.jpg I got cheated on my dial gauge! Clearly, I have 2.02" intake valves, but my calipers must be off... http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...r/DSC_0861.jpg http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...r/DSC_0862.jpg Something for no extra charge! http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...r/DSC_0856.jpg These must be for improved oiling: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...r/DSC_0857.jpg Sigh. What a BLEEPING mess. "Fresh hone" must mean knocking down the ridge until you go through a set of stones. :censored: I bought this engine from someone that bought it from someone else that traded something for it in the beginning - so, I'm not about to go trying to get my money back. Looks like I'll have a bit more work to do. I haven't plastiguaged the mains yet - just the four of the rods... and they are from 0.007 to 0.03. (that's NOT a typo). I hope to hell the mains are in spec and I can get away with having the crank cleaned up and the rods resized - though who knows what else is hosed with this damn thing. :mad: |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Wow!!!! That sucks bro! Sorry to hear that.
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
um............
is the crank at least a 400 crank |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Is that bike a Blur? My buddy rides a few of those in Nor Cal. When i would visit him, we would ride for a week straight. He still has a V10, and a Heckler. I think he sold his Blur for a Ellesworth.
Anyway, I like your truck. Its the same colors as mine. Except mine has a white roof. My frame is good, but the body is packed with bondo. I tore mine down too. It's been 4 months. About 1 or 2 weeks from having it put back together. Good luck on yours! |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Yeah it looks like you didn't come out too good on that deal :( It's a good thing you decided to check it out. I've heard that using the 5.565 rods with the 350 pistons leave the pistons down in the hole a ways. Just something to consider if you need to replace some parts. Oh, and there isn't anything wrong with your calipers....those are 1.94 intake valves.....just a set of stock 882's
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
With those stock flat top pistons with 76cc heads you will never get 9.5:1 compression.........Just a thought for you.
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Ours has its fair share of bondo too! Looking forward to finished pics of yours! |
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That was the ONLY thing I verified before buying. :lol: |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
well at least u got the right crank
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Update:
Found a LWB stepside box in good condition and set it on the back (my wife likes stepsides more and was excited to see what it would look like). http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...0/DSC_0136.jpg Well, being as ignorant as I could be, I seem to have purchased an 89" bed (pre 60) and I need a 97". http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...0/DSC_0137.jpg :lol: So, I was thinking of either extending the cab or shortening the frame (frame'd be wayyyyy easier) - but I cant find any info on the shorter LWB stepside or its frame. Help? :D |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Extended Cab is the way to go! :metal:
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
I'm not a LWB step truck guy but .... I do think that in this case I too would extend the cab & take some of the front off that bed.
Ratty 46 |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
I don't need much.
I pilfered a chop on the net, and subjected it to my MSpaint skillz... http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...edcab_idea.jpg |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Update! :D
Between keeping the woodstove hot and making Thanksgiving dinner, I started to tear into the 66. Door off and removing the seat: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0772.jpg Sweet! Build sheet for my truck! :d: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0773.jpg Removed the "Bomb" from the passenger area. Fuel tank is getting relocated to the rear of the truck. http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0784.jpg Very surprised to see this much structure left on a 44 y/o truck: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0785.jpg Note the shiny body-bolt; though it is pretty here, once I removed it, I found that it was "rusted down" to about half its original thickness. **** safety, anyway... http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0786.jpg I really was happy with the floor - but it's hosed @ the door sill area: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0787.jpg About a 5lb clump of filler schticking the rear of the fender to the bracket. I couldn't get to all the bolts, so I zipped it off. Note: Cutoff wheel + ?? y/o bondo smells like poop. Literally. http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0789.jpg A bit more room to work now... http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0790.jpg Spotwelds marked for drilling, http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0791.jpg Old vs. New http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0793.jpg Inner rocker / floor rot http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0792.jpg Cutting out rotted areas, more damn spotwelds and what-not: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0795.jpg Where it sits right now. http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...smDSC_0796.jpg I need to get the rear cab corner cut off and see how it looks under the rust - the replacement floor panels I have go from the front cab seam, all the way to the rear cab corner. This side of the truck is awesome, compared to the other side - I may not have to use the full piece. I don't think I'll be so lucky, though. Came to a decision on the bed too: cutting 6" off the rear of the frame allows the bed to "fit" the frame (more or less, LOL) - and the wheels end up being set 3" too far back. Current planned solution is to redo the rear suspension with a 3-link and coilovers to scoot the axle 3" forward. |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Nice buildup Scot, ans welcome to the site sinse I missed your first login...
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Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Didn't get as much done as I wanted - had errands to run and I had to take some time to develop a plan on how I will go about replacing the sheet metal - and making a list of more parts to get as I find more rot.
I usually use an insulated mug for this - but, hey - Red Beer! http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...work/DSC_3.jpg Rust cut out so far (doesn't include the piles of scale and grinding on the floor): http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...ork/DSC_10.jpg Hidden sheetmetal that needs replaced (remember me mentioning another parts order?) http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...work/DSC_4.jpg Rear corner cut away and working on separating the floor from the cab support: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...work/DSC_5.jpg Floor and rockers set in place, waiting for final cut/fit and weld: http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...work/DSC_9.jpg I love cleco fasteners. http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...work/DSC_7.jpg Started taking apart the box to work on banging out the dents and seeing what needs work. This is where I left off last night. http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g2...ork/DSC_12.jpg Gotta take this afternoon off and go cut and split more wood - it's starting to get cold. :) |
Re: Starting my first build - 1966 C10
Well , a nice find...with all the hidden surprises.....gonna look good when done.
Looking for a MIG welder to get the party started - Though some research on the H.A.M.B. led me to THIS. As for the above..I bought one a few yrs ago, think I might have used it twice, it cuts well, but could never get a good bead to run with it, so went back to just using my mig. Hope you have better luck |
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