1972 beginner

[rivernut]

Hello to all,
I have been reading this site and it's great. Super experienced folks. 1st time poster. I need some advise. I recently purchased a 1972 3/4 4x4 chevy long box that is super super rough. It only cost $200.00 but I drove it home. Mainly just rusted apart. It is a 350 4speed no options rig.
My questions are:
1. Is this worth fixing. Can I do it for around $10k and still get something close back if it is done right and I decide to sell. I really like the look but are parts accessable enough. My uncle has a 2wd cab that need some floor work and corners and I would have to switch the center council part. I have a rust free bed.
2. Will a 454 from a 74 truck fit without much trouble. I would like to make a pulling machine and I have the engine. I know all the engine/tranny stuff will work but will it fit ok in the engine compartment against fire wall.
3. I have a rust free texas 1981 silverado air cab and oem front fenders and hood if anyone is in a trading mood.
4. I live in Northeast iowa so rust is pretty much a way of life.
Thanks for your help in advance.
rivernut

[71swb4x4]

Welcome from South Dakota.
The big block will work but you may need to massage the firewall a bit. There are a few board members that have done the swap so you should be able to find info.
You will be able to find whatever parts you need. There are a ton out there, some cost more than others though

[chevyfarmer]

Welcome from Michigan, where rust is also a way of life.... and road salt is It sounds like you have a project on your hands, but you seem to have quite a few parts. Will it be worth 10K?? That will all depend how you spend the money and nice it turns out. But you can find almost anything you need here, post some pics if you can we really like to see new projects!

[rivernut]

Thanks.
Good Idea. I will get some taken, that way I can get more specific help.

[pjmoreland]

If it were a short bed instead of a long bed, it would be easier to get some of your money back if you decided to sell. In my experience you will never be able to get back what you put into it, especially the time.

[knsmodels]

I am almost done restoring my 72 K10.....I have replaced almost all of the metal in the truck.....My Dad and myself did about 80% of the work and I was within your budget so I say yes it is worth it...go for it.....Paul

PS Welcome to the board...I wish I would have found this board before my truck was almost complete it would have been a big help. The knowledge and parts that are available here will make it a breeze.