Heart transplant or retirement?

[LaraWilde]

Hello kiddies,

I currently have a 72 K20 Chev Cheyenne with a 99 - 6.5L turbot diesel and a 5 speed box.

I used to have a 327 in it with a 4 speed before I converted.

Now I am looking for something new again - I am tossing up between buying a new rig for an everyday driver and using the old girl for recreation OR putting a new engine etc in the big gal and giving her a make over (new interior and electrics etc.

Any ideas as to what I should do and do you have suggestions for the best motor to put in?

I do a lot of kilometers on the open highway so I need something with power to tow and overtake, but good fuel economy, and comfy cruising speed.

I am looking at about $40k AUS to buy the new rig I like.

I am guessing $10k gives me a new interior, new electrics would be about the $10k mark and that leaves about $20k for motor and drive train.
Can I do it for that??? - remember the Aussie dollar buys about 60c US.

[Husker]

You can always buy a new rig and keep the K20 and work on it as time, money permits. Don't get rid of it you'll regret it.
If ya buy a new truck buy GM they need all the help they can get.
Ron

[LaraWilde]

I had no intention of getting rid of her - and please don't raise the subject to her - she will be horribly upset. I have it arranged that if I die we are buried together or my ashes are welded into the chassis.

Fact is I haven't found a new car I like as much and if I can get have her fully restored for the same money should I do that or will I just wear her out faster?
It is just so disheartening trying to get work done to her - I am so sick of being ripped off... I get stressed just thinking about the narrow minded gits who I need to talk to for parts and work.

Of course I would buy GM - Holden in my case - I would rather push my Chev than drive a Ford - that said my company car is a ford - I am a bad person and I need spanking. Go the GM

[LaraWilde]

Ok... so I have very foolishly looked at the pix of trucks on here and I am all inspired again.
So I want to finish my baby so she is puuurfect.

What is the wish list?
If I am putting together a perfect every day driver 72 - what motor, interior, electrics etc do I want?
Also I am looking at a cage/canopy for my poodle to travel in - has anyone done this well or got any tips? - needs to be ventilated, weather proof and lockable. Needs to fit a large hound, two spare tyres and rims, swag, esky and other bits. Was looking at a cage but I think a canopy will be better. It will need to be custom made so any ideas would be muchly appreciated.

[Longhorn Man]

one thing to remember on the replace/restore debate.... you fix up your classic, and the value goes up every day that it gets older.
You buy a new one, and it's worth 75% what you paid as soon as you sign the dotted line.

[leddzepp]

Originally Posted by Longhorn Man

You buy a new one, and it's worth 75% what you paid as soon as you sign the dotted line.

And 65% as soon as the front tires hit the street.

[PanelDeland]

If you need milage,reliability,and power,the most likely way to obtain all three is with a late model LS and OD swap.If you need diesel I have no idea what is best in Aus or is that OZ?I'm thinking members here have gotten around 22-24 mpg with a late driveline setup.
What are you towing?The weight will make a difference in what powertrain will work best.The canopy should be easy.Look for a style you like and have the windows in it refitted with expanded metal and sliding windows.That should give you airflow for the pooch and also make it weathertight for when you need it.

[LaraWilde]

Morning Lads,
I will be importing whatever engine I go for so I am thinking that it would be best if I had a trip to the US and drive a few - well that will be my excuse for a holiday.
As soon as the Aussie and US dollar have a closer relationship I will start shopping.
Who has fitted aftermarket cruise control, electric windows etc?
Any advice?