10-18-2010, 08:30 PM | #1 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Project "Cheap Truck"
Let me start by saying this is going to be a painfully slow build because it is going to be a "Cheap Truck". I am searching for the best deals on parts and will be doing most of the work myself. I've also sold my 97 Dodge so I would have to keep this truck and use it for a DD. I've had bad luck with keeping these old trucks as I would find it easy to sell them when money got tight.
So far I have only done small things to it to make it more reliable. My plans are to switch it back to an automatic transmission and complete the necessary bodywork to make it a little less breezy inside the cab. I will try to photo document as I go but I'm sure there are things I'm gonna miss. So far I have cut off the huge exhaust tips. From this: To this: I also repaired the PCV system from this: To this: I also repainted/replaced the door panels from this: To this: I know the door panels have nothing to do with reliability but it makes me feel better when I'm driving it.
__________________
-Scott- Last edited by sjarrett71; 10-18-2010 at 08:45 PM. |
10-18-2010, 08:35 PM | #2 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
There is tons to be done to the truck when it comes to rust repair and little things that need replaced. I already have new inner fenders and passenger side outer:
I have a friend at the local vo-tech and was going to see if I could get them painted there. I want to stay with the original color. Do you all think I should paint the inner fenders body color or leave them black? I'm pretty much 50/50 on it right now. Oh yeah, because I have a pic of the mounted tach I thought I'd post this up since I purchased it from a board member (Chevydog):
__________________
-Scott- Last edited by sjarrett71; 10-18-2010 at 08:47 PM. |
10-18-2010, 08:39 PM | #3 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
I've done other things like replace the ignition module, replace a leaky fuel line, a leaky diaphragm on the carb, and cleaned and replaced some ground wires. The PO had over a 6 foot length of wire to the distributor so I shortened it too. I plan on getting a Skip White distributor soon since my counterweights are sticky and the springs are no longer springy. I figure I would just replace it instead of repairing it but I will keep this one for a spare. I also have an extra 72 Chevy longbed frame with rear coils I was thinking of rebuilding and using as I get the body repaired. It has leaf springs out back right now and I'm thinking the coils would be cheaper to replace (to lower) and more comfy of a ride. Any opinions on that?
__________________
-Scott- Last edited by sjarrett71; 02-06-2011 at 08:16 PM. |
10-19-2010, 09:19 AM | #4 |
dazed and confused
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: marion nc
Posts: 1,649
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Lookin good!!!
__________________
members met: redbaron69, billsbowtie,nc67 |
10-20-2010, 01:40 PM | #5 |
This guy has got to be stopped
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Frankenstein, MO
Posts: 138
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Great to see another truck in MO! I'm about 40 miles north of you. What year is the truck? Over all it looks like a solid start! The 4 speed is cool, but I understand wanting an auto for simplicity...
__________________
J P Evers 1970 4x4 LWB project: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=415134 |
10-20-2010, 08:00 PM | #6 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Yeah, I wouldn't mind if it was a passenger car 4 speed but a granny low? The only thing I can think of it the original auto went out and they had the 4 speed laying around?
__________________
-Scott- |
10-20-2010, 11:16 PM | #7 |
Junk Yartist
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Greeley, CO
Posts: 2,203
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
It's nice to see an Eagle Globe and Anchor over there on the left column! Good luck with your build!
__________________
-Jeremy YOU ONLY FAIL IF YOU STOP TRYING 70 Crew Cab Build Link 70 GMC Suburban 4X4 build thread 95 Yukon Daily Driver Rebuilding an NP205 |
10-21-2010, 09:21 AM | #8 |
This guy has got to be stopped
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Frankenstein, MO
Posts: 138
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Are you sure it was an auto originally? Most of them were 3 on the tree - manual. The 4 speed or an automatic is an upgrade option. The granny low is sweet... you only use low if your loaded, or pulling something, otherwise its basically a 3 speed - on the floor.
I just picked up a 70 GMC with the granny low 4 speed - originally equipped. if your glovebox door is original, the spid on the inside of it would say what tranny it came with. After looking at a few GMC's, I'm starting to like the 4 eyed look... I think you have yourself a neat old truck that looks real solid from the pictures... I'd give up my 98 dodge dd for it!
__________________
J P Evers 1970 4x4 LWB project: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=415134 |
10-21-2010, 12:06 PM | #9 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Semper FI!!
__________________
-Scott- |
10-21-2010, 12:11 PM | #10 | |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Quote:
and the original auto column is still in there, just stripped down. The manual trans cross-member is also bolted in instead of rivets. I already have all the parts to switch it back to auto except a "good" auto trans. I have 2 cores but need to save funds to get one rebuilt.
__________________
-Scott- |
|
10-21-2010, 12:59 PM | #11 |
This guy has got to be stopped
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Frankenstein, MO
Posts: 138
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
I saw the column in the pics, but thought it mighta been the 3 on the tree column.
What year is the truck??? I'm guessing 72, given the holes in the doors... assuming they're original... but the grille doesn't have the stripe, is it a 69-70 piece? Does the truck have a drivers side? We haven't seen it yet... plus you only have a replacement fender for the passenger side... which looks OK in the pics...
__________________
J P Evers 1970 4x4 LWB project: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=415134 |
10-21-2010, 06:16 PM | #12 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Yes it is a 72, all original except the transmission. I only have a passenger side replacement fender because I haven't found a driver side cheap enough yet. I am looking at one though. The fenders are ok but both need the front cups replaced andt he driver's side has a dent in the front crease. What stripe on the grill are you referring to? If it's a painted stripe, the paint is pretty darn faded. Like I said, I have no reason to believe the trim and stuff that's on it isn't original 72.
__________________
-Scott- |
11-08-2010, 09:07 PM | #13 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
I went to the salvage yard and got a sway bar (free) and 2 new chrome trim rings (also free). Has anyone ever used 73-87 auto trans linkage on one of our trucks?
__________________
-Scott- |
11-14-2010, 07:56 PM | #14 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
I finally got the frame brackets off the donor truck and got my (free) sway bar mounted. It is by far the the best addition to the truck so far, it handles so much better and no longer feels like I'm gonna scrape the doors when I make a turn. Anyway, here are pics so I have record of it. Also, I didn't paint it up or anything yet, I'll do that when I paint the frame.
__________________
-Scott- |
11-15-2010, 08:54 AM | #15 |
Tot Roddin'
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Mid-MO
Posts: 24,461
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Lookin' good Scott!
__________________
-Nate 1969 CST SWB - Project Blank Slate (4.5/6" ECE Static Drop, 6-lug disc brake upgrade (manual), Billet Specialties Vintec 20x8.5 255/40 (F) 20x10 295/40 (R), 250 I-6) 1960 AMF Skylark - Tot Roddin' (Lowered with custom frame; soon to include custom push bar and interior) 2008 Silverado CrewCab 1LT (5.3L, 3:73, 4x4, LT1, Z-71, Towing Package) |
12-05-2010, 10:22 PM | #16 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Found a tilt steering column up in your neck of the woods Nate. The price was right and in good keeping with the name "Cheap Truck". I'm picking it up this week or next weekend. Depends on if the lab can get me in at GHQ during the week. I'm pretty excited about it!
__________________
-Scott- |
12-05-2010, 10:52 PM | #17 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Bayville NJ
Posts: 385
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Looks like a nice find. I too am developing an appreciation for the 4 eyed GMC's as I just picked up a 70 wrecker. Have fun and keep the pics coming!
Posted via Mobile Device |
12-05-2010, 10:55 PM | #18 |
Grandpa in the rustmobile...
Join Date: Nov 2008
Location: Spokane WA/Viola TN
Posts: 11,422
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
nice truck i like these builds!
__________________
John Goose-1968 C10 355,9.32-1CR, Vortec Heads ,262 voodoo, 3.73:1 3OTT (HS ride/beater/farm truck) http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=317684 Grams 53-1953 Chevrolet Belair http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=1#post4327784 1969 Chevy C10 Shortbed 4.5/6?" Frame off resto http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=548136 1999 Toyota Tacoma 4x4 |
12-06-2010, 08:00 AM | #19 | |
Tot Roddin'
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Mid-MO
Posts: 24,461
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Quote:
Hope that all is well with you and yours down south.
__________________
-Nate 1969 CST SWB - Project Blank Slate (4.5/6" ECE Static Drop, 6-lug disc brake upgrade (manual), Billet Specialties Vintec 20x8.5 255/40 (F) 20x10 295/40 (R), 250 I-6) 1960 AMF Skylark - Tot Roddin' (Lowered with custom frame; soon to include custom push bar and interior) 2008 Silverado CrewCab 1LT (5.3L, 3:73, 4x4, LT1, Z-71, Towing Package) |
|
12-09-2010, 09:44 PM | #20 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
In keeping with the theme "Cheap Truck" I scour the local for sale ads, Craigslist, and of course this site for used parts. I want to get a good value for every penny I spend. So far I've been doing pretty good and even better, when I do find parts I've been able to have the money to buy them. Sunday while looking at Craigslist I saw an ad for a Chevy tilt column. I check out the ad and see that it appears to be a tilt column for our trucks. The seller was only asking $125.00 for it because he has no use for it and wants it out of his garage. Of course I tell him I want it so I paypal him $25.00 to hold it for me, thinking if he sells it out from under me I'm only out $25.00. Well he holds it for me for a few days and I go pick it up. When I get there I go to his work and he is not there. I call him and he says "the column is in the front seat of my truck, check it out and if you want it, just leave the money in the console." I'm glad (and I'm sure he is too) that I am an honest guy and actually leave the money. I think I got a pretty good score for $125.00 wouldn't you say?
__________________
-Scott- Last edited by sjarrett71; 12-09-2010 at 09:53 PM. |
12-10-2010, 02:04 AM | #21 |
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: British Columbia
Posts: 484
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Hey I am curious as to which model of donor truck you snagged that sway bar from? I have been planning on nabbing one myself.
It looks like a nice and straight truck! Enjoy the build and may the savings be with you!
__________________
Trevor "You already said spite" |
12-10-2010, 05:25 AM | #22 |
69' Chevy Stepside
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Anchorage, Ak
Posts: 526
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
Build is coming along great so far! I would like to get one of those swap bars for my truck sometime as well.
__________________
-Matthew -69' Chevy Custom/10 Shortbed Stepside 2WD "Copperhead" - Restored, 6.0L LQ9 Built. L92 Heads and LS3 Intake with Comp Cam 223/231 .610/.617 112 LSA, 4L60E with Shift Kit and Circle-D 3200 Stall Converter ~Build Thread -1957 Chevy BelAir 2 Door Post Sedan, Full Frame off Restoration done myself - 6.0L with T56 six speed -1957 Chevy BelAir 2 Door Post Sedan - Nearly rust free AK car, Project in the waiting -2003' Chevy Silverado SS AWD 6.0L! - Daily Driver |
12-10-2010, 06:53 PM | #23 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
My particular bar and brackets came from a 76 chevy 2wd. Just had to get new bushings of course.
Posted via Mobile Device
__________________
-Scott- |
12-10-2010, 11:55 PM | #24 |
Tot Roddin'
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Mid-MO
Posts: 24,461
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
That column looks good Scott, awesome score!
What day did you make it up this way?
__________________
-Nate 1969 CST SWB - Project Blank Slate (4.5/6" ECE Static Drop, 6-lug disc brake upgrade (manual), Billet Specialties Vintec 20x8.5 255/40 (F) 20x10 295/40 (R), 250 I-6) 1960 AMF Skylark - Tot Roddin' (Lowered with custom frame; soon to include custom push bar and interior) 2008 Silverado CrewCab 1LT (5.3L, 3:73, 4x4, LT1, Z-71, Towing Package) Last edited by 72BlckButy; 12-10-2010 at 11:56 PM. |
12-11-2010, 08:35 AM | #25 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Rolla, MO
Posts: 2,463
|
Re: Project "Cheap Truck"
It was Wednesday. I remembered you saying you were going to be on the road so I didn't bother to call.
__________________
-Scott- |
Bookmarks |
|
|