1971 Chevy K10 DD Build

[Scroff]

Ive never really posted on here, just been a lurker, as Ive never had anything worth saying about the 1970 2wd GMC Ive had for years, but I just picked one up I think is worth making a thread on. Ive been looking for a half ton 4WD for a couple years now for a reasonable price and finally found one. This came with no motor/trans/tcase, which is perfect for what I am doing. I plan on running a 5.3 hooked to a SM465 and an NP205 (tentatively). It was an auto car so Ill have to find a pedal assembly, but I already have a rebuilt 32 spline sm465 with a hydraulic bellhousing Id like to use. From what I can tell this pickup has never been painted, the dash has never been cut, and has minimal rust. I think I found a gem, which is funny because the guy I got it from told me it wasn't worth his time for what he wanted to do... and gave it to me. Let me know what you think, I just took some quick pictures but it gives an idea.

[Mr Chevorlet]

What! just gave it to you, that is a nice truck. Great score!

[Scroff]

Yeah.. crazy. I don't get lucky very often, but it has to happen every once in a while.

[cooperhw]

Very nice truck to build into "what you want".

You must have been doing something right for him to want to "give you the truck". Good for you.

[swamp rat]

Well you could just give it to me but that'd be no fun for you!

Nice beginning even if you just fix up whats there and make it a driver.

[Scroff]

Alright, long time and slow progress. Just had my first daughter and definitely not making it down to the shop like I used to. Anyway, got the clip and cab taken off, frame cleaned and undercoated. Swapped the auto column and pedals, installed a hydro clutch master. Bought the 5.3, cut down the wiring harness, and just got it set in there. I now have a question about angles, I have a 2001 Silverado (same year the engine is out of) and on a flat surface that engine sits at 7.5 degrees. I placed the engine at 7 in my 71 but according to a few posts 4 degrees is the best for these engines. I really dont want to drop the engine any further so I guess my other option is to raise the transmission/transfer case. Let me know what you think.

[Scroff]

It's been over 2 years and thought I would add one final post to this thread. I have been driving this pickup for 2 weeks now as my DD (roughly 60 miles per day). Attached are a few pics of what it became. Definitely not a show pickup, but I am happy with it. After sanding it down it became apparent that it had been rolled at some point and was actually as straight as Elton John, so I did the best I could with my body skills... or lack there of.

[swamp rat]

It looks great!