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iowaboynca · 10-07-2014, 02:53 PM

Yeah, I get to reply first! you will see the gambit of options in the build page. It always helps to map out your project. Based upon the limited info provided it sounds like you want a daily driver for your daughter to build/work on together (nice goal).

That means you need to improve the driveability and safety of the truck. Typically this means improving the brakes and handling of the truck. Next is reliability. This is either rebuilding or upgrading the drivetrain. The next thing i would look at is safety, which are seatbelts, steering, lights etc. Now this is a very high level view, and in my opinion.

THE GOOD: the looks, the cool factor, and to me personally the adaptability to the above. You can stuff a SBC/LS with some effort but at the same time there is the cool factor of an inline six. A good rebuild will make a stout motor.

THE BAD: Some of the little parts needed can be difficult to find or the repop stuff quality is something to be desired. You have to remember that this is a 50+ year old truck and the creature comforts won't be there.

THE UGLY: Rust. Anywhere water/gunk can accumulate. I believe everything starts at the frame. if its bad, you gotta find a good one or go possibly go the S10 route. Typical problem areas that i've seen are the inner/outer cab corners bottom of the doors, floors, and lower front of the cab. Unfortunately, unless you head west, you're probably not going to find a truck out east that doesn't have some if not all of this issue.

Granted this is just my opinion and i'm sure there will be other things pointed out that i missed.

Cool goal and good luck!

10-07-2014, 02:53 PM	#2
iowaboynca Registered User Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: West Side of the valley, CA Posts: 878	Re: What to look for? Yeah, I get to reply first! you will see the gambit of options in the build page. It always helps to map out your project. Based upon the limited info provided it sounds like you want a daily driver for your daughter to build/work on together (nice goal). That means you need to improve the driveability and safety of the truck. Typically this means improving the brakes and handling of the truck. Next is reliability. This is either rebuilding or upgrading the drivetrain. The next thing i would look at is safety, which are seatbelts, steering, lights etc. Now this is a very high level view, and in my opinion. THE GOOD: the looks, the cool factor, and to me personally the adaptability to the above. You can stuff a SBC/LS with some effort but at the same time there is the cool factor of an inline six. A good rebuild will make a stout motor. THE BAD: Some of the little parts needed can be difficult to find or the repop stuff quality is something to be desired. You have to remember that this is a 50+ year old truck and the creature comforts won't be there. THE UGLY: Rust. Anywhere water/gunk can accumulate. I believe everything starts at the frame. if its bad, you gotta find a good one or go possibly go the S10 route. Typical problem areas that i've seen are the inner/outer cab corners bottom of the doors, floors, and lower front of the cab. Unfortunately, unless you head west, you're probably not going to find a truck out east that doesn't have some if not all of this issue. Granted this is just my opinion and i'm sure there will be other things pointed out that i missed. Cool goal and good luck!