Don't know what I'm doing, but lovin' it

[Dark Wing61]

I just bought a sweet '61 Chevy Apache with an engine, transmission and power steering from a 76 - 78 Chevy -- a rebuilt 350 small block, stroked and bored out to a 383.

It is not a show truck and was not put back together in classic way, but it is awesome looking (I'll figure out how to upload some pictures later). It has some issues though -- as expected. Currently the turn signal is broken down inside the steering column, the windshield wipers don't work (old boy I bought it from had it for 5 years and never fixed them, because he never drove it in the rain), and the transmission leaks.

I'll attempt to fix these issues, but curious to know the best sources for parts.

Longer term issues:
1) I'm in Texas, so air conditioning is a must in the summer
2) I would like to change the drum brakes out for disc brakes
3) I would like to move the gas tank from behind the seat in the cab to under the bed

I'm OK mechanically inclined, but all of these things are beyond my skill and the current tools I own & more to the point my patience level. I'm curious to know average costs for having a shop do these things.

I have only had it since Monday, but I'm loving the retro feel, the smell of gas fumes and the dope sound of the purr of the engine and the exhaust.

Looking forward to learning how to take care of this thing right and getting some helpful tips from you guys... & girls

[vetnat]

Welcome! That's what these trucks are for now, enjoying yourself. I know the feeling you describe Your truck sounds interesting, would love to see pictures.

[Dark Wing61]

Here are a few pictures that were sent to me by the old boy I bought it from.

Haven't taken any of my own because it has been raining everyday since it was delivered.

[Sparky dave]

Wow looks like a show truck from here. It’s a beauty!

[Dark Wing61]

Thanks! I have been looking for an older truck since the Spring... everything from the square body '80s (which i really like), but when I found this one listed I knew that I had found the right one.

I'm going to need some help on it though and I'm hoping the crew on this site can point me in the right direction with this and advice to get everything working right.

[68Gold/white]

s Dave Kindig would say, it's Beech'n LOL

Gld you own it!!! Seldom EVER see an early 60's pickup around, great to see it here!!!

[Dark Wing61]

Thanks! I'm really eager to get it inspected and registered so that I'm not riding dirty.

Hopefully, I can get all that taken care of this week and enjoy it without having to look over my shoulder for 5 - 0.

I back the blue, just don't want to get pulled over by them.