76 Silverado, Want to get it good running Order
 

I have a pretty rough looking silevrado that I relly like. I picked it up for $750.00 and have been driving it a couple of months. I had a wiring issue that people here helped with and appreciate it.

What are some things that can be worked on/replaced/inspected without getting the truck OOC for more than a day or two?

The engine seems sound however my son ran it low in oil till it shuddered a bit and now it has a distinct tick.

I took it down to get a couple of tires and have the brakes checked and the master cylinder had to be replaced and the shop said someone had put something else in the brakes which caused the seals to go bad. The master cylinder gasket was swollen and oversize when he took the lid off.

Is there anything with the steering/suspension I should look for that could be a safety issue ?

Also the transmission seems to shift hard at each gear even when I am driving easy . Is that something that should be looked at ?

I appreciate any advice. I'd love to work at getting this back in good running order and help support the oil companies by driving it more. They are hurting right now.

I should have spent more time working on cars when I was in HS instead of welding !

Re: 76 Silverado, Want to get it good running Order
 

Sounds like you could have multiple problems. I would focus on one area at a time. Another suggestion is to go to your local parts store and get a CHILTONS repair manual. That might help you get started. Good luck.

Re: 76 Silverado, Want to get it good running Order
 

Is the Chiltons better than the Haynes. The Haynes I have seems to be less specific than what I remember form many years ago. Thanks for the info.

Re: 76 Silverado, Want to get it good running Order
 

Yea i find the chiltons to be a little better, but its better to just have both on hand. :metal:

More than likely the ticking due for oil starvation is a valve train issue.

Re: 76 Silverado, Want to get it good running Order
 

lots of areas of concern on these trucks. a few are:

rotten cab mounts

frames crack and break at the steering box

factory rivets for upper ball joints sometimes sheer off

just to name a couple.

maybe a previous owner added a shift kit to your transmission and that's where your firm shifts are from?