1966 Build
 

Hello guys, brand new to the site.

I figured this would be the best place to show how my build is coming along and ask you guys some questions at the same time.

I acquired a 1966 long wheelbase stepside 3 weeks ago and would like to turn it into a short wheelbase, big window, fleetside.

First things first, I tore the truck down to the frame almost immediately, and have been working on the cab, smoothing the firewall, working on the floorpans, and may get to the rockers in the next couple days....

Re: 1966 Build
 

Welcome to the site! Looks like you have your work "cut out" for you. Good progress so far. I am just finishing converting my LWB into a SWB. Just finishing welding up the bed sides. I used the ECE brackets that fit into the frame. They seemed to work well. Good luck.

Re: 1966 Build
 

Welcome to the forum :D

Looks like you're off to a good start.

Re: 1966 Build
 

Welcome and good job!

Re: 1966 Build
 

Welcome from East TN. What are the driveline plans?

Re: 1966 Build
 

Welcome

Re: 1966 Build
 

Welcome for Santa Fe, NM. Looking good so far. :metal:

Re: 1966 Build
 

Hey guys, thanks for the warm welcome.

Its unfortunate when we have projects the day is only 24 hours long, Id like to work on this thing 24x7 until it is done but having a family and a job really slows down the progress...lol

The truck originally had a 3 speed tranny, 3 on the tree but Im gonna go with a 383 stroker, which I already have the 4 bolt main block, crank, rods, pistons, balancer, gaskets, etc.. Ill go with a basic 4 speed trans.

Ive added a few pics from this weekend. One more pic of the firewall, shaved the gas tank hole, then switched over to working on the frame. I only had a little bit of time, and rain was coming the very next day so I painted only what I was able to wire brush.

Re: 1966 Build
 

:welcoem: from Crosby. Keep us informed with a lot of pcs.

Re: 1966 Build
 

Worked on the frame alittle bit more today but I ran out of paint so I couldnt quite finish the first coat. So, I jumped over and used a wire wheel to clean the K-member, and the upper control arms before blasting them with my little media blaster.

Re: 1966 Build
 

Nice progress!! I too am new to the site and just bought a 66 long bed. I thought of making a short bed at some point. Does anybody have plans on how to do it. Where to cut and not too cut?

thanks
Ed

Re: 1966 Build
 

Ed,

See the link below, as it shows the shortening of the bed and frame. I plan to attempt the same on my project.

http://www.classictrucks.com/tech/cl...uck/index.html

Re: 1966 Build
 

Ok guys I have a question. The frame, k-member, and control arms have been painted so Im about to set up the frame on jack stands to shorten it. That shouldnt take me but a couple hours then it will be time to start bolting some stuff together.

Id like to use the CPP drop spindles/disc brake conversion for the front, unless you guys have a cheaper suggestion?

My main question is, what rear end with disc brakes would fit well under this frame? I have an ok place to pick and pull parts so if you suggest a certain year vehicle I can see what they have to offer.

Any help would be appreciated!!

Re: 1966 Build
 

Well, I finally had time to work on the project today. Im shortening the frame so I started by cutting 8" off the back of the frame, then I took out 12" from the center. Actually it was a hair less than 12".

I staggered the cut, not wanting to make it a straight cut, and added fishbones to the back after welding both the inside and outside of the frame.

Next Ill be touching up the frame before starting to bolt on some suspension.

A few pics below:

Re: 1966 Build
 

Been out of town a ton but was able to get quite abit done this weekend.