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#1 |
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2016
Location: Duncanville , TX
Posts: 55
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53 GMC longbed project
Hi team
i have a 53 GMC with a 228 and 3 on the tree the truck belongs to my buddy and he had it in paint jail for over a year. After a long thought process and deciding to use the Original Inline 6 (228) i need your help with gathering parts for a DRIVER build , we are not to keen on originality ( besides the engine) so we decided on a 12V conversion. Here is just ordered a 12v conv. harness incl. the "modern fuse panel" setup. i also ordered a Intake /header/weber kit from CLIFFORD to get a bit more performance out of the 228. + a HEI dizzy ( small cap) parts/conversions i need help with - 12V starter. is there a off the shelve GM part# i can use? - is there a ignition /starter switch, so we dont use the foot start ? also in terms of styling the truck sits at OEM height but my buddy would like to get Steelies with moon caps , what size wheel and tires do you recommend? and what way would be easiest to lower the truck with OEM suspension to give it a bit a stance ? |
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#2 |
Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: calgary alberta
Posts: 7,974
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Re: 53 GMC longbed project
for your 12v conversion, did you order a 12v alternator? which one-how many amps?
original 6v starter will usually handle the 12v if you have an engine that is in good shape/state of tune so the starter doesn't have to crank for very long before it starts, like a couple seconds. to swap in a 12v starter requires some work because the ring gear on the flywheel and the gear teeth on the starter are different. there are lots of 6V starters being used on 12 volts, just don't expect it to last if it has to crank for awhile before the engine starts. crank for a couple seconds, then let the starter cool off for a few minutes otherwise you will burn the contact plates off the armature in the starter motor. a good starter rebuild shop would be able to set up your original starter so it has what it takes to handle 12 volts, usually the field windings need to be swapped out, but most guys use the 6v starter on 12 until it cooks, then just get another 6v starter and carry on |
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#3 |
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Fallbrook California
Posts: 248
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Re: 53 GMC longbed project
I had a 53 GMC with a 228. It was pretty reliable. Added two Carter W-1s, split the exhaust and it surprised me how much faster it was. It lasted a couple weeks. If a hot rod is your goal, I'd start with a different engine. Good luck.
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#4 |
Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: calgary alberta
Posts: 7,974
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Re: 53 GMC longbed project
Possibly good advice. If you plan to abuse an engine maybe start with something less old. Lol.
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#5 |
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2016
Location: Duncanville , TX
Posts: 55
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Re: 53 GMC longbed project
Not building a hotrod.
Just a reliable inline 6. The Clifford mods should bring a bit more power and reliability. I probably also change to a foot gas pedal/cable setup. If it's not to involved And change from a foot start to a ignition key crank. |
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#6 |
Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: calgary alberta
Posts: 7,974
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Re: 53 GMC longbed project
if you plan to lower the truck there are lowed beams available for the front, maybe a few less leaves in the stack out back or a different set of springs. new shocks at the same time. an adjustable drag link as well. there are threads on here about how to do that and the do's and don'ts
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#7 |
Active Member
![]() Join Date: Feb 2022
Location: PLANO, TX
Posts: 131
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Re: 53 GMC longbed project
Hey SeBamBam we are neighbors, I am in North Dallas area.
The 53' is sweet, you have come to the right place to get answers during your project! I am pass half way with a 55.1 GMC 1/2 ton RestoMod. This forum has been a real blessing!
__________________
1955.1 GMC 100 RestOMod 1972 T120RV 1967 C200 Trail 90 2014 TRD Quad CAB |
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