And so it begins................ - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

*highperf4x4* · 04-12-2009, 12:34 AM

This is my project jump-off thread. I've talked about the truck already but here's a recap. The truck belonged to my late grandfather. My uncle had purchased it from him before he passed away. I'm not sure exaclty how long he's had it but I know I've been wanting it for the last 20 years. Time has taken a small toll on the truck but it's still driveable and I'm gonna have fun fixing it up. It will be more of a resto-mod than a restoration. I know my grandfather and my uncle would want me to build it where it will bring the most enjoyment. I've got a 1983 Celebrity ski boat that's gonna look right at home behind this truck!

Here's the before pics...............

Definitely going to need a seat!

I'll give you 2 guesses what my first order of business will be................ here's a small hint!!!!!

Just for kicks, this is the motor I built for the 4x4. The truck I used to pull the green beast back from Rogers, Arkansas to OKC.

Did you spot the HEI distributor? lol, no more computer controlled anything in the 4x4.

I'll be looking for advice and parts as I go along. Starting with a cool seat! And then a nice shaft mount stereo! lol I'll post the update pics in this thread as I go.

justtime520 · 04-12-2009, 01:10 AM

Nice truck, I am exited to see it come along.

*highperf4x4* · 04-12-2009, 10:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by justtime520

Nice truck, I am exited to see it come along.

You and me both brother!

*highperf4x4* · 04-12-2009, 10:22 PM

I knocked out the insurance yesterday, I'll hit the registration tomorrow and then it's break out the toolbox.

I also noticed today that the right rear is slightly lower than the left rear and the tires are inflated the same. Since there aren't any rubber body mounts on the bed, I'm assuming it's in the springs. Anyone know if it's better to go after some new springs or try to have these re-curved?

badpeanut · 04-16-2009, 08:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by highperf4x4

I also noticed today that the right rear is slightly lower than the left rear and the tires are inflated the same. Since there aren't any rubber body mounts on the bed, I'm assuming it's in the springs. Anyone know if it's better to go after some new springs or try to have these re-curved?

My leaf-spring GMC was the same way. Turned out one of the leafs had been broken on one side and only that leaf was replaced so the spring packs were not identical from side to side. I'd recommend you look yours over well before you make any decisions.

*highperf4x4* · 04-16-2009, 08:40 PM

Yeah, I'm thinking about settling for independent air shocks until I feel like messing with it.

**FRENCHBLUE72** · 04-12-2009, 01:26 AM

Looks like a great truck to start with.

OARNGESI · 04-12-2009, 06:43 AM

Nicve start

tim21391 · 04-12-2009, 11:50 PM

keep us posted on your build.. we all love pictures

glad to see another truck being restored

allen123 · 04-15-2009, 06:25 PM

Subscribed
Looks like you got a really solid truck to start with

bigblazerboy · 04-15-2009, 07:27 PM

nice looking gmc. i will be watching this one

big_al_71 · 04-15-2009, 07:30 PM

looking good!!!!

Green Machine · 04-15-2009, 08:35 PM

Looks like a real solid truck, less rust is alway great. Nice that it has A/C too.

*highperf4x4* · 04-16-2009, 12:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Green Machine

Looks like a real solid truck, less rust is alway great. Nice that it has A/C too.

Actually that pic of the engine is from my 4x4 that I used to pull the 72 back from Arkasas with. I just threw it in for kicks. It's a high performance 350 that I built myself. I pulled it out of a 76 chevy and dropped it into a 90 GMC 4x4. It's about 375hp. Too much for the stock drivetrain though, I've been replacing yokes/axles ever since I put it in. The 72 has a 402 Big Block in it.

However, the 72 does have the factory air also, I just need to replace the froze up compressor. Upon checking the valves, it appears to still have freeon in it.

Highsteel · 04-18-2009, 06:33 PM

Nice! Are those wheels 10 inch? All around?
The tires look good, man!

*highperf4x4* · 04-18-2009, 09:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Highsteel

Nice! Are those wheels 10 inch? All around?
The tires look good, man!

Thanks!

The rear wheels are 15x10, the fronts are 15x8. The front tires are 255/60/15

Quote:

Originally Posted by badpeanut

Nice exhaust! Was it custom bent or a kit (and if it was a kit details please).

It was custom bent front to back by University Muffler in Norman. They ordered me the glasspacks with true 2 1/2" cores.

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigblazerboy

rims look nice on there. where the vid of the exhaust?

I will get that soon. Any suggestions on where I could upload the video to?

*highperf4x4* · 04-18-2009, 09:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by allen123

Nice how much did the rims and tires cost all together

Less than $800 from Summit Racing for wheels/tires/center caps. The wheels are Cragar Nomad 2's.

The 2 1/2" exhaust was 290.00 complete including all new brackets dampers.

*highperf4x4* · 04-19-2009, 11:09 PM

Ok here's my first shot at a video upload. It will sound the best if you have a sub on your computer!

Truth be known though, the exhaust sounds louder in the video than it actually is. But it does sound good though, you can barely touch the pedal and it sounds like a beast!!! I love the Big Blocks......

YouTube - 1972 GMC SierraGrande

*highperf4x4* · 04-20-2009, 03:14 PM

As a note, that video is with the secondaries on the carb disconnected. It's the original quadrajet running only on the primaries right now. When I hook the 4bbl back up I'll do another video to see how much difference there is in sound.

badpeanut · 04-18-2009, 08:03 PM

Nice exhaust! Was it custom bent or a kit (and if it was a kit details please).

bigblazerboy · 04-18-2009, 08:17 PM

rims look nice on there. where the vid of the exhaust?

allen123 · 04-18-2009, 08:19 PM

Nice how much did the rims and tires cost all together

68C15 · 04-22-2009, 07:02 AM

I would have left the truck alone. aside from the seat needing a fresh blanket every month or 2 it looks done. you do have a 402 and ac after all.

*highperf4x4* · 04-22-2009, 09:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 68C15

I would have left the truck alone. aside from the seat needing a fresh blanket every month or 2 it looks done. you do have a 402 and ac after all.

Ah ha! And right you are young grasshopper! However, I just put in a new A/C compressor, Drier, and 134a freon. I'll take some pics as soon as I get a chance.

Just so you know, this isn't going to be a "patina" truck...........

*highperf4x4* · 04-24-2009, 06:42 PM

I picked up a used JVC shaft mount stereo and a pair of refurbished Sony 6x9's at a local audio shop for $100.00

04-12-2009, 12:34 AM	#1
highperf4x4 Account Suspended Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Oklahoma City Posts: 4,709	And so it begins................ This is my project jump-off thread. I've talked about the truck already but here's a recap. The truck belonged to my late grandfather. My uncle had purchased it from him before he passed away. I'm not sure exaclty how long he's had it but I know I've been wanting it for the last 20 years. Time has taken a small toll on the truck but it's still driveable and I'm gonna have fun fixing it up. It will be more of a resto-mod than a restoration. I know my grandfather and my uncle would want me to build it where it will bring the most enjoyment. I've got a 1983 Celebrity ski boat that's gonna look right at home behind this truck! Here's the before pics............... Definitely going to need a seat! I'll give you 2 guesses what my first order of business will be................ here's a small hint!!!!! Just for kicks, this is the motor I built for the 4x4. The truck I used to pull the green beast back from Rogers, Arkansas to OKC. Did you spot the HEI distributor? lol, no more computer controlled anything in the 4x4. I'll be looking for advice and parts as I go along. Starting with a cool seat! And then a nice shaft mount stereo! lol I'll post the update pics in this thread as I go.

04-12-2009, 01:10 AM	#2
justtime520 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Tucson AZ Posts: 187	Re: And so it begins................ Nice truck, I am exited to see it come along.

04-12-2009, 10:22 PM	#4
highperf4x4 Account Suspended Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Oklahoma City Posts: 4,709	Re: And so it begins................ I knocked out the insurance yesterday, I'll hit the registration tomorrow and then it's break out the toolbox. I also noticed today that the right rear is slightly lower than the left rear and the tires are inflated the same. Since there aren't any rubber body mounts on the bed, I'm assuming it's in the springs. Anyone know if it's better to go after some new springs or try to have these re-curved? Last edited by highperf4x4; 12-03-2009 at 01:02 AM.

04-16-2009, 08:40 PM	#6
highperf4x4 Account Suspended Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Oklahoma City Posts: 4,709	Re: And so it begins................ Yeah, I'm thinking about settling for independent air shocks until I feel like messing with it.

04-12-2009, 01:26 AM	#7
FRENCHBLUE72 PROJECT 7DEUCE Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: GRANTS PASS OR Posts: 21,608	Re: And so it begins................ Looks like a great truck to start with. __________________ GO BIG GREEN GO DUCKS MEMBER #6377 72 k-5 daily driver 6'' lift 35'' 350-350-205 slowly getting rust free. Project "7DEUCE" check out my build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=267665 Tim Powell..R.I.P EastSideLowlife..... R.I.P..

04-12-2009, 06:43 AM	#8
OARNGESI Registered User Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: CASA GRANDE AZ Posts: 4,276	Re: And so it begins................ Nicve start __________________ 70 SWB STEPSIDE 70 BLAZER 09 challenger

04-12-2009, 11:50 PM	#9
tim21391 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Salina, Kansas Posts: 1,998	Re: And so it begins................ keep us posted on your build.. we all love pictures glad to see another truck being restored __________________ 1972 C-10...402/400..flowmaster 40 series 1967 Mustang 347 stroker/C-4 1966 Mustang 289/3-speed 2013 Mustang V6/6speed w/300 ponies I may be 23, but i sure do knows 67-72s are sexy! Its not MPG its smiles per gallon! build started 11/25/08 build thread: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s....php?p=2993796

04-15-2009, 06:25 PM	#10
allen123 It'll buff out Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Blanchard,Ok Posts: 1,376	Re: And so it begins................ Subscribed Looks like you got a really solid truck to start with __________________ 1972 Chevy c10 swb 2008 CBR600RR Grafitti edition My Build Cody Allen

04-15-2009, 07:27 PM	#11
bigblazerboy Registered User Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: richmond, va Posts: 304	Re: And so it begins................ nice looking gmc. i will be watching this one

04-15-2009, 07:30 PM	#12
big_al_71 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: South Florida Posts: 11,375	Re: And so it begins................ looking good!!!! __________________ Get your facts first, and then you can distort them as much as you please!!!!!. Sylvester's build thread >>>http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ht=big+rebuild

04-15-2009, 08:35 PM	#13
Green Machine Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: Estherville, Iowa Posts: 3,371	Re: And so it begins................ Looks like a real solid truck, less rust is alway great. Nice that it has A/C too. __________________ 1968 C10 307 3spd Long Fleet ------ http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=201103 1970 C10 305 Super T10 Long Fleet --- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=202285 1971 C20 383 TH350 Dana Posi ----- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=206894 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 C3 6.0

04-18-2009, 06:33 PM	#15
Highsteel Chasin' the Dream Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Lost in the 70's Posts: 200	Re: And so it begins................ Nice! Are those wheels 10 inch? All around? The tires look good, man! __________________ Born with a Bowtie 1971 C/10 350/350 Daily Driver/project Assumption=The mother of all -ups

04-20-2009, 03:14 PM	#19
highperf4x4 Account Suspended Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Oklahoma City Posts: 4,709	Re: And so it begins................ As a note, that video is with the secondaries on the carb disconnected. It's the original quadrajet running only on the primaries right now. When I hook the 4bbl back up I'll do another video to see how much difference there is in sound.

04-18-2009, 08:03 PM	#20
badpeanut Not a bad nut after all.. Join Date: Dec 2000 Location: ND Posts: 1,756	Re: And so it begins................ Nice exhaust! Was it custom bent or a kit (and if it was a kit details please). __________________ '05 Chevy 2500HD 4x4 '72 GMC LWB 4x2 driver '72 Chevy LWB 4x4 plow truck '71 Blazer 4x4 driver '70 GMC LWB trailer

04-18-2009, 08:17 PM	#21
bigblazerboy Registered User Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: richmond, va Posts: 304	Re: And so it begins................ rims look nice on there. where the vid of the exhaust?



Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.

04-18-2009, 08:19 PM	#22
allen123 It'll buff out Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Blanchard,Ok Posts: 1,376	Re: And so it begins................ Nice how much did the rims and tires cost all together __________________ 1972 Chevy c10 swb 2008 CBR600RR Grafitti edition My Build Cody Allen

04-22-2009, 07:02 AM	#23
68C15 blood type; Retumbo Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: next to my reloading bench Posts: 10,269	Re: And so it begins................ I would have left the truck alone. aside from the seat needing a fresh blanket every month or 2 it looks done. you do have a 402 and ac after all.

04-24-2009, 06:42 PM	#25
highperf4x4 Account Suspended Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Oklahoma City Posts: 4,709	Re: And so it begins................ I picked up a used JVC shaft mount stereo and a pair of refurbished Sony 6x9's at a local audio shop for $100.00

Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.