1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

Well - here we go. Got the cab off today. Although we used straps to lift it and bent the drip rail on roof of cab. The SPID lists the optional 3rd seatbelt for middle but I can’t think this is it - ha.
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Here is how it looked when we picked it up. After running the VIN through the Vintage GMC company in Oshawa I learned it’s one of 16 made in Canada. We’ve got a lot of work ahead, but a fun project that’s worth every penny. It’s been untouched. Every piece is original, outside of wheels.
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This is a pic of a wire on the frame. Any ideas what this might have been? A winch?
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This is all the crud I scraped off the undercarriage. Fun stuff. But this thing is amazing. The back hubs are even still black! Unreal.
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Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

My apologies, I'm posting pics from my phone. For some reason they show up sideways. I got the mono carb rebuilt which was why I posted the pic of it.

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

So is it getting a floor or is it good enough to repair? I coulda loaned you a cab lifting fixture. Might want it when the time comes to put it back on. Are you attempting the metal work yourself? Looks like you got that manifold surfaced.

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

Awesome work so far, next time on the cab, run a 2x4 across the roof that is wider than the drip rail, hook the straps over the ends of the 2x4 and your drip rail will survive. Looks like you’ve got a solid truck to start with and a great plan! While you’ve got it apart, take the steering box off and check the frame and very front cross member and rivets for cracks. Both of my K trucks have had cracks there. ORD makes a plate kit to fix the problem if it exists.

Also if you’ve got an IPhone if you take the pictures horizontally with the home button to the right your pictures will post correctly.

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

Thanks - we'll do that. Yes, great reminder. My Blazer came with one of those plates.

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

Well the passenger side looks like it only needs the outer rocker, but the driver side needs it all. Until we get it up and start cutting into it, and get a really good look I don't think we'll really know. Not sure yet if we'll do it ourselves, I may have Terry do it. Yep, got the manifold fixed, and the carb kit done. I may take you up on that lift. We have to lift it onto some saw horses to get a better look at it.

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

IMO, probably was originally purchased by a public utility or government agency. Private buyers rarely ordered a 4x4 with side mount spare and 6 cylinder 4 spds. Probably had a painted front bumper and 16" wheels. Spid in glove box?

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

I'd be curious to see the SPID too...was either a rarely ordered option or perhaps aftermarket addition (although still old).
I'd love to hear your plans on the floor as well...it looks pretty hammered. Although surface rust is worse on the drivers side, based on the condition I would bet your corners and rockers are going to be pretty bad as well.

Here you go
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Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

I am looking for your opinions on the emissions canister/charcoal filter. Do you guys leave them on when redoing your projects or toss them? All of mine is there, I'm just curious if it's necessary?

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

If restoring keep it. Won't change your performance.

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

A 292 in a shortbed 4x4 is a real stump puller.

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

That doesn’t look too rusty.

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

That wire looks added on. GM doesn't run wires between the cab and frame. If it were factory it would be inside the frame rails.

Yes, I realize that about the wire. I was just curious if anyone has seen anything like that before.
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The usual spots. Floor, rockers, cab supports, cab corners, door skins, rear fenders on bottom, and the damn roof skin. So, it’s salvageable but work to be done.
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That’s what I’m learning. I’m excited to get it back together and see what we have :)
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Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

Just thinking out loud here but if it needs a roof skin a replacement OEM piece stamped for cab marker lights sure would be cool.

Re: 1971 GMC Fenderside 4x4 Build
 

I agree, it would be killer with cab lights!

Update - floor is cut out, box fenders are off - making progress :)
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